New guidance for councils to crack down on rogue landlords

Local authorities across the country will receive a new package of online support as part of the government’s commitment to give greater protection to tenants.

Seeking to reform the private rented sector for the better, the publication of two new guidance documents signals the latest step in the government cracking down on the small minority of criminal landlords who exploit tenants for their own gains. One document is for local authority enforcement practitioners and another for tenants and landlords.

The new support includes an easy to navigate digital enforcement package with online learning modules for those officers who were unable to attend the national programme.

Housing Minister Heather Wheeler 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.”