The UK government has emphasised that local councils should adopt a proactive stance in enforcing the Renters’ Rights Act, signalling a shift towards more rigorous oversight of the private rented sector. This approach is supported by significant funding allocations aimed at ensuring effective enforcement and compliance.
Government urges councils to enforce Renters’ Rights Act proactively
In a recent written parliamentary response, Baroness Taylor of Stevenage, Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Housing, highlighted the government’s expectation that local housing authorities take a proactive role in enforcing the provisions of the Renters’ Rights Act. The Act introduces new duties for councils to act where non-compliance is suspected, marking a more interventionist regulatory environment for landlords.
Baroness Taylor confirmed that the government has allocated £41.12 million in new burdens funding for the 2026-27 financial year to support enforcement activities. This funding is distributed based on the volume of private rented sector stock within each local authority, with a portion also allocated to local weights and measures authorities, such as trading standards departments, to cover responsibilities related to enforcing rent in advance measures.
She also noted that this funding follows an earlier allocation of £18.2 million for 2025-26, demonstrating a commitment to sustained financial support for enforcement throughout the current spending period.
Expanded council powers and enforcement measures
The Renters’ Rights Act grants councils enhanced powers, including the ability to conduct surprise inspections and enter premises where tenancy records are held. These powers enable councils to issue fines that can amount to thousands of pounds without the need to provide prior warnings to landlords, a notable change from previous enforcement practices.
Additionally, landlords face increased administrative costs, as they must register their properties under multiple schemes. Those operating within selective licensing areas may be required to pay fees for registration with the selective licensing scheme itself, the Private Rented Sector (PRS) Database, and the PRS Ombudsman. These fees can run into hundreds of pounds, adding to the financial obligations landlords must manage.
Funding to support enforcement and long-term sustainability
Baroness Taylor emphasised the government’s intention to establish a sustainable funding model for enforcement based on future revenues from the PRS Database fees. This approach aims to ensure that councils have the resources necessary to maintain robust enforcement over the long term.
Under the Act, all landlords are required to register with the PRS Database, which will hold information about their properties accessible to tenants. This transparency measure is designed to improve accountability and tenant awareness within the private rented sector.
What this means for landlords
Landlords should be aware that councils are now empowered and expected to take a more assertive approach to enforcement under the Renters’ Rights Act. The removal of the requirement for councils to issue warnings before fines are imposed means that compliance must be prioritised to avoid significant penalties.
The introduction of multiple registration fees will increase the cost of managing rental properties, particularly in selective licensing areas. Landlords will need to factor these fees into their operational budgets and ensure timely compliance with registration requirements to avoid enforcement action.
Overall, the government’s funding commitments indicate that enforcement activity is likely to intensify, making it essential for landlords and agents to stay informed and proactive in meeting their legal obligations.
Source: Based on reporting from Property118
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Source: www.property118.com
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