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Housing Minister Heather Wheeler has announced online support for local authorities tackling rogue landlords.
The publication of 2 new guidance documents, one for local authority enforcement practitioners and another for tenants and landlords, is said to signal the latest step in the government cracking down on the small minority of criminal landlords who exploit tenants for their own gains.
Local authority enforcement officers play a crucial role in making sure people in rented accommodation have somewhere safe and secure to live, with the announced guidance set to help those responsible for protecting tenants to use the powers available to them to “maximum effect”.
The guide for tenants and landlords brings together the rights and responsibilities of each, and provides links to in-depth guidance on legislation.
It aims to complement previous steps by the government to support those in the private rented sector, including the “How to let” and “How to rent” guides.
Housing Minister Heather Wheeler MP said: “This package of support for those working on the frontline of the private rented sector will ensure they are fully equipped to make use of any new powers which can improve the lives of tenants trapped in poor quality accommodation.
“This, along with our further guidance for tenants and landlords on their rights and responsibilities, builds on the ongoing work which sets out to make renting fairer and more accessible for all whilst also ensuring that everyone has a home which is safe and secure.”
Responding to the new guidance published, the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) has welcomed the guidance but criticised it for being long overdue.
Tamara Sandoul, Housing Policy Manager at CIEH, said: “We have needed clear and up to date guidance bringing together local authorities’ powers on housing enforcement for some time, but we are glad that it has finally materialised.
“We hope this document prompts a more proactive approach towards private rented housing from all authorities. However, we recognise that the ability to implement this guidance effectively depends on locally available resources and local political will to do so.
“We look forward to continuing to work with government to improve housing standards across the country.”
Cllr Darren Rodwell, London Councils’ Executive Member for Housing & Planning, added: “Boroughs are committed to taking robust action against rogue landlords who exploit their tenants.
“Our enforcement officers are crucial for tackling poor-quality housing conditions and protecting vulnerable Londoners.
“This government guidance will help local authorities share best practice and learn from each other’s successes in dealing with rogue landlords.
“However, the government must go much further – including through supporting proposals such as a Rogue Landlord Order, which would put boroughs on a firmer footing when taking enforcement action and recouping costs.
“We urgently need these stronger enforcement powers and resources for our frontline teams.”
