Government Issues New Guidance on Evictions and Upcoming Waste Recycling Reforms

The government has released updated guidance for landlords on the eviction process under the Renters’ Rights Act, emphasising strict compliance to avoid claim dismissal and potential cost penalties. Additionally, new waste recycling regulations coming into effect in March 2026 will impact landlords, particularly those managing Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs).

Updated Eviction Process Under the Renters’ Rights Act

Landlords must now follow a revised court eviction procedure for tenants under the Renters’ Rights Act. For rent arrears cases, eviction claims must be submitted via the Possession Claim Online Service (PCOL), while other eviction grounds require a Section 8 notice. It is essential that landlords provide the correct notice period for each eviction ground.

Failure to adhere to these new procedures could result in claims being dismissed and landlords being ordered to pay tenants’ court costs. This underscores the importance of landlords maintaining thorough documentation and strong evidence to support their claims. Given the complexity and potential consequences, specialist legal advice is strongly recommended, especially when possession recovery is critical.

Landlords can access the full government guidance here.

Upcoming ‘Simpler Recycling’ Waste Regulations

From March 2026, the government’s ‘Simpler Recycling’ reforms will require local authorities to consistently provide core recycling services including general waste, food waste, paper and cardboard, and other dry recyclables. This will have significant implications for landlords, particularly those managing HMOs.

HMOs face stricter licensing requirements mandating landlords to supply appropriate bins in sufficient numbers and ensure tenants are fully informed about recycling protocols. The new regulations may exceed current council waste collection limits, potentially forcing landlords to engage private waste collection services.

Landlords are advised to begin planning for these changes now to ensure compliance and avoid operational disruptions.

Recent Enforcement Action Highlights Risks of Non-Compliance

A landlord in Sefton was fined £14,000 plus legal costs for renting out four flats with serious health and safety hazards, including damp, mould, lack of heating, absence of smoke detectors, and even missing front doors. Despite receiving improvement notices and a prohibition order, the landlord failed to carry out required works, leading to prosecution.

This case serves as a stark warning that local authorities are prepared to take firm action against landlords who neglect their responsibilities. Councils have pledged to follow up on complaints and enforce compliance rigorously.

Selective Licensing Scheme Concessions in Great Yarmouth

Great Yarmouth Council has responded to landlord concerns by reducing the selective licensing fee from £784 to £694 and extending inspection intervals from two to four years. The council will also consider staggered payments for landlords with portfolios exceeding ten properties, acknowledging the financial pressures faced by larger landlords.

The scheme covers approximately 5,000 homes and is expected to generate £3.45 million in revenue for the borough. These concessions demonstrate the value of landlord engagement in licensing consultations.

More details on the licensing concessions can be found here.

Propertymark Advises Landlords to Monitor Licensing Rules

Propertymark has issued guidance urging landlords to stay informed about their local council’s licensing schemes and requirements. With selective licensing on the rise, landlords must ensure compliance to avoid penalties and enforcement action.

Propertymark’s advice is available here.

Additional Housing News Links

• UN experts raise concerns over homes rented out by English social landlord
• Fraudsters sentenced after illegally sub-letting property
• Should tenants use rent payments for better credit scores?
• Weak illegal eviction laws allowing ‘criminality’, says leading expert

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