The UK government has indicated a commitment to enhancing enforcement measures against criminal landlords, following research revealing that councils currently recover only a quarter of fines imposed on landlords for housing offences. This development comes as the Renters’ Rights Act is set to take effect on 1 May 2026, introducing new powers for local authorities in the private rented sector.

Government engagement on enforcement

In response to a written parliamentary question from Liberal Democrat MP Clive Jones, Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook confirmed that the government is actively engaging with local authorities to improve enforcement against rogue landlords. Mr Pennycook highlighted that councils already possess various tools to recover unpaid fines, such as charging orders and bankruptcy proceedings, and that the government will continue to support the sharing of best practices to ensure effective implementation of the forthcoming legislation.

Challenges in fine collection

Research has shown that councils collect only about 25% of the civil penalties they issue to landlords for breaches of housing regulations. This low recovery rate has prompted calls for stronger enforcement mechanisms to deter non-compliant landlords and ensure that penalties serve as an effective deterrent rather than a mere administrative burden.

New powers under the Renters’ Rights Act

The Renters’ Rights Act, coming into force on 1 May 2026, grants councils enhanced authority to tackle non-compliance in the private rented sector. These powers include the ability to conduct surprise inspections, even entering premises where tenancy records are held, and to impose substantial fines on landlords who breach their obligations.

Furthermore, councils will be empowered to require landlords, letting agents, and associated third parties—such as property technology firms, banks, accountants, and contractors—to provide documents and information relevant to housing compliance. These measures aim to improve transparency and accountability across the sector.

What this means for landlords

Landlords should prepare for increased scrutiny and enforcement activity as the Renters’ Rights Act comes into effect. The strengthened powers available to councils mean that failure to comply with housing standards and regulations could result in surprise inspections and significant financial penalties.

Proactive compliance and thorough record-keeping will be essential to avoid enforcement action. Landlords and letting agents should familiarise themselves with the new requirements and consider reviewing their practices to ensure they meet the standards expected under the updated regulatory framework.

Source: Based on reporting from Property118

TLA Training Academy

The Landlord Association has launched its new Training Academy for UK landlords, providing structured guidance, compliance education, and practical knowledge to support landlords at every stage. Members can now complete the programme and become TLA Certified Landlords at no additional cost as part of their membership.

Landlords can explore the Academy here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/tla-academy/

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TLA update

The Landlord Association is currently onboarding new service providers into its Trusted Partner Hub, a new initiative designed to support landlords, tenants, letting agents, and property managers with vetted, high-quality services. As one of the fastest growing landlord associations in the UK, TLA offers partners direct access to an engaged and active member base at the point of need. Service providers across legal, maintenance, insurance, finance, mortgages, tenant screening, and property services can register their interest here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/become-a-tla-service-partner/