More than 50 councils have been chosen to share £2.4m to help crack down on rogue landlords.
The money will allow councils to take more action against irresponsible landlords by building relationships with external organisations, boosting short-term staffing, creating new digital tools and supporting tenants through rent repayment orders.
Housing minister, Heather Wheeler, said: 'Everyone has the right to live in a home that is safe and secure, and it is vital we crack down on the small minority of landlords who are not giving their tenants this security.
'This extra funding will further boost councils’ ability to root out rogue landlords and ensure that poor-quality homes in the area are improved, making the housing market fairer for everyone.'
The Local Government Association (LGA) said the funding should be followed with more freedom for councils to establish local licensing schemes.
Cllr Judith Blake, housing spokesman for the LGA, said: 'Councils want to support a good quality local private rented offer in their communities, but can be held back by significant funding pressures and uncertainty. It is therefore good that the Government has announced a funding boost for councils to help ensure the small minority of rogue landlords improve standards.'
