Two local councils are intensifying their efforts to enforce licensing and housing standards within the private rented sector (PRS). Bexley Council is imposing substantial fines on landlords who fail to comply with its selective licensing scheme, while Calderdale Council is preparing to introduce stronger enforcement powers backed by new national legislation.

Bexley Council’s selective licensing enforcement

In Bexley’s Belvedere ward, landlords who have not joined the selective licensing scheme introduced in January last year face fines of up to £30,000, increasing to £40,000 for non-compliance. Nearly 1,000 applications for licences have already been submitted, but council officers are now investigating properties suspected of operating without the required licence.

The selective licensing scheme applies to all privately rented homes in the ward unless they are exempt, aiming to improve tenant safety, housing conditions, and landlord professionalism.

Council urges landlords to comply

Cllr Brian Bishop, Bexley Council’s cabinet member for communities and housing, emphasised the scheme’s purpose: “The selective licensing scheme is designed to improve tenant safety, housing conditions and ensure landlord professionalism as well as reassuring residents in the area that the properties are safe and well looked after.”

He welcomed the number of landlords who have already applied but warned those who have not: “We are however currently looking into a number of properties that we know are not signed up to the scheme. I would urge those landlords in Belvedere who have not applied for a licence to do so as soon as possible. If they don’t, they could face a large fine or prosecution.”

Increased inspections and hazard management

Bexley Council has also stepped up enforcement activity alongside the licensing rollout. Over the past year, nearly 100 inspections of licensed properties have been carried out, with officers visiting around 150 additional properties to identify unlicensed accommodation.

Some inspections have uncovered Category 1 hazards, which pose an immediate risk to occupants. The council has worked with landlords and managing agents to resolve these issues and ensure properties meet safety standards.

Calderdale Council plans to expand enforcement powers

Meanwhile, Calderdale Council is considering expanding its enforcement powers concerning housing conditions. The proposals include introducing Civil Penalty Notices for housing offences, supported by new national legislation under the Renters’ Rights Act.

With approximately 18,000 privately rented homes in Calderdale, complaints about property conditions prompt inspections and interventions. Under the proposed framework, fines could be issued to landlords or agents for breaches such as unsafe homes, illegal eviction, or hazards affecting tenant safety. Each hazard could attract a separate penalty depending on its severity and the responsible party.

Commitment to protecting tenants and supporting responsible landlords

Cllr Danielle Durrans, Calderdale’s cabinet member for communities, stated: “We know that most private landlords in Calderdale treat their tenants fairly, but when we receive reports of unacceptable standards, or unsafe conditions, we are committed to taking swift and strong action.”

She added: “Legislation to allow us to issue penalty notices would strengthen our enforcement powers and see us getting tough on poor landlords or letting agents. Not only would this protect residents but would also support responsible landlords.”

What this means for landlords

Landlords operating in Bexley’s Belvedere ward must ensure they have applied for and obtained a selective licence to avoid substantial fines or prosecution. The council’s active inspections highlight the importance of maintaining safe and compliant properties.

In Calderdale, landlords and agents should prepare for the possibility of increased enforcement powers and the introduction of civil penalties for breaches of housing standards. This development underscores the need for landlords to uphold high standards of property management and tenant safety to avoid penalties.

Source: Based on reporting from Property118

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