Decision details

Purpose of Report:  To provide an update report to the Executive Member regarding the implementation of new laws introduced last year and proposed laws affecting the Private Rented Sector.

The Executive Member is asked to note the findings of officers and consider whether there are any amendments necessary to ensure that the laws are being implemented effectively.

Resolved:

i)     That the report be noted and it be agreed that the fixed penalty fines remain at the maximum level in line with guidance to ensure that the laws introduced last year deter poor practice within the sector.  

ii)         That it be noted that further changes to the law relating to the Private Rented Sector (PRS) will be introduced sometime in 2017 due to the provisions of the Housing and Planning Act 2016.

  Reason: To continue to impose the maximum monetary penalty will send out the right message to agents/landlords who need to ensure that they are providing transparency when setting fees and continue to improve the management/safety of the properties they let.