Landlords face £7,000 fines for damp and mould in government crackdown

The UK government has introduced new enforcement measures targeting landlords who fail to address severe damp, mould, and heating failures in rental properties. From 22 June 2026, councils in England will be empowered to impose on-the-spot fines of up to £7,000 for serious hazards in privately rented homes, marking a significant step in improving housing conditions and tenant protections under the Renters’ Rights Act.

Introduction of £7,000 Penalties for Serious Hazards

Under the recently enacted Renters’ Rights Act, local authorities now have the authority to issue substantial fines to landlords when rental properties present significant health and safety risks. The new regulations specifically include severe damp and mould, as well as broken boilers during cold weather, among the 21 identified hazards that may attract penalties. These hazards represent the highest risk categories under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS), encompassing issues such as fire risks, electrical faults, structural defects, and unsafe layouts.

Housing Secretary Steve Reed has urged councils to utilise these powers proactively to protect tenants and ensure that landlords maintain safe and habitable homes. The introduction of these fines aims to deter neglect by landlords and encourage prompt remedial action, thereby reducing the prevalence of substandard living conditions in the private rented sector.

Expanded Enforcement Tools for Local Authorities

The £7,000 penalty complements existing enforcement mechanisms available to councils, which include issuing repair notices, carrying out emergency works, and recovering costs from landlords who fail to comply. These measures collectively enhance the ability of local authorities to respond swiftly and effectively to unsafe housing conditions.

By updating the HHSRS framework, the government intends to streamline enforcement processes, enabling quicker identification and resolution of hazards such as dampness, fire safety issues, and electrical dangers. This approach reflects a broader commitment to raising standards in the private rented sector and safeguarding tenant welfare.

Tenant and Advocacy Group Perspectives

Tenant organisations have welcomed the government’s tougher stance on landlords who neglect property maintenance. Representatives from groups such as Generation Rent and the Renters’ Reform Coalition have emphasised that no tenant should endure living conditions that compromise health or safety. They highlight the importance of councils actively pursuing landlords who ignore repair obligations and profit from substandard housing.

These groups also note that the Renters’ Rights Act, alongside the abolition of Section 21 eviction notices, strengthens tenants’ ability to report issues without fear of retaliatory eviction. This legislative context encourages tenants to assert their rights and seek redress for disrepair, damp, and mould problems.

Implications of Changes to the Housing Health and Safety Rating System

The government’s revisions to the HHSRS are designed to support more efficient enforcement by clarifying hazard classifications and prioritising the most serious risks. This update is expected to assist councils in taking decisive action against landlords who fail to maintain safe rental properties, particularly in relation to damp and mould, which have long been recognised as detrimental to tenant health.

Landlords should be aware that these changes may lead to increased inspections and a higher likelihood of enforcement action where hazards are identified. The enhanced framework underscores the importance of regular property maintenance and prompt response to tenant complaints.

What this means for landlords

Landlords and letting agents should recognise that the introduction of £7,000 fines for severe hazards represents a significant escalation in enforcement risk. Properties exhibiting serious damp, mould, or heating failures during cold weather may now attract immediate financial penalties, alongside other enforcement actions. This development reinforces the need for rigorous property management and proactive maintenance strategies.

Ensuring compliance with the updated HHSRS standards and promptly addressing tenant concerns will be critical to avoiding penalties. Landlords should also consider reviewing their repair and inspection protocols to identify and rectify potential hazards before they result in enforcement action. Working collaboratively with tenants and local authorities can help mitigate risks and maintain good landlord-tenant relationships.

What TLA members should consider

• Conduct thorough inspections of rental properties to identify and address damp, mould, and heating issues promptly.
• Review and update maintenance schedules and repair procedures to ensure compliance with the Renters’ Rights Act and HHSRS requirements.
• Maintain clear records of repairs, communications with tenants, and any actions taken to resolve hazards.
• Familiarise themselves with the new enforcement powers available to councils and understand the potential consequences of non-compliance.
• Engage with tenants proactively to encourage early reporting of issues and demonstrate commitment to property standards.
• Access relevant training and resources through the TLA Academy to stay informed about evolving landlord compliance obligations.

TLA Training Academy

The Landlord Association provides structured guidance, compliance education and practical support for landlords, letting agents and property professionals. Members can access training and resources designed to help them stay organised, informed and prepared.

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

Those looking to join and access member support can register here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/get-started-with-the-landlord-association/

TLA update

The Landlord Association is continuing to expand its support, resources and partner network for landlords, tenants, agents and property professionals across the UK. Service providers interested in working with TLA can register their interest here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/become-a-tla-service-partner/