Issue - meetings

To advise Members of the key provisions of the Renters Rights Act 2025 and the implications for Council services, landlords and tenants, setting out the additional statutory duties placed on the Council and seek approval for a separate Private Sector Housing Enforcement Policy, a Civil Penalties Policy update and to update Officer Authorisations under the legislation. This is in accordance with the priorities/objectives for Housing - 'a good quality home for everyone' by regulating housing effectively and responding to housing needs and contributing to the Council's vision to create 'a greener, safer, healthier Borough, where everyone prospers'.

Cabinet noted that the Head of Environmental Health, Licensing and Private Sector Housing be delegated to deal with Housing functions which include the new responsibilities under The Renters Rights Act 2025 and the authorisation of Officers as necessary.

It was agreed that the Act was a step in the right direction despite there being a number of concerns and what were described as inherent weaknesses in the legislation. It was stated the Overview and Scrutiny Committee would be requested to monitor the progress and implementation of the Policy and receive regular updates.

RESOLVED that:

1.       The Private Sector Housing Enforcement Policy incorporating the Renters Rights Act 2025 provisions be approved.

2.       The updated Housing Civil Penalties Policy be approved.

3.       Delegation be granted to the Head of Environmental Health, Licensing and Private Sector Housing to carry out minor policy changes and updates including the addition of new offences as they are enacted.

4.       The Overview & Scrutiny Committee be requested to conduct regular reviews of the progress and implementation of the Policy.

Reason

This is in accordance with the priorities/objectives for Housing - 'a good quality home for everyone' by regulating housing effectively and responding to housing needs and contributing to the Council's vision to create 'a greener, safer, healthier Borough, where everyone prospers'.