New enforcement powers for local authorities

What you need to know

• Non-compliance can lead to fines, prosecution, or rent repayment orders.
• Tenants have stronger rights to challenge unlawful behaviour.
• Local authorities have greater powers to investigate and enforce.
• Staying compliant protects your investment and reputation.

New enforcement powers for local authorities

The Act gives local authorities enhanced powers to investigate and act against landlords who breach the law.

This includes

• Issuing civil penalties for non-compliance – initial or minor non-compliance can incur penalties of up to £7,000, with serious, persistent or repeat non-compliance incurring up to £40,000

• Pursuing criminal prosecutions in serious cases.

• Enforcing rent repayment orders where tenants are entitled to reclaim rent.

Private Rented Sector Database and Landlord Ombudsman

Landlords will be required to register their properties on a new national Private Rented Sector database, as well as the Landlord Ombudsman.

Failure to register could result in

• Fines for non-compliance.
• Ineligibility to serve a valid possession notice.
• Increased scrutiny from local enforcement teams.

Rent Repayment Orders (RRO)

One of the most significant enforcement tools is the strengthened Rent Repayment Order.

Tenants can apply for an RRO if their landlord has

• Illegally evicted them.
• Failed to comply with a banning order.
• Let out a property that is unsafe or unlicensed.