URL: https://democracy.northtyneside.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=492

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose: To approve delegated authority to Director of Housing, Director of Public Health and Director of Resources to exercise all powers and duties under the provisions of the Renters Rights Act 2025. To develop and keep updated any policy in relation to the powers under the Renters’ Rights Act 2025.

Content: Cabinet were presented with a report to seek the appropriate delegations and powers to enable the Authority to take effective enforcement action and to introduce policies required to fully implement the newly enacted Renters Rights Act.   Cabinet were also advised that the act represents a significant step forward in strengthening the rights of private renters, providing them with greater security and protection so that they can live in safe, good-quality homes for longer without fear of unfair treatment.   The Act places new duties on the Authority to enforce a wide range of potential breaches committed by a landlord.  Cabinet were advised that there will be a national awareness campaign to accompany the rollout of the Act.  This will be supported locally so that renters in North Tyneside will understand their new rights and landlords are aware of their responsibilities.   Cabinet RESOLVED to:   (i)     authorise the Director of Public Health and the Director of Housing and Property Services to exercise all powers and duties under the provisions of the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 and for the Officer Delegation Scheme to be amended accordingly as soon as reasonably practicable; (ii)   approve the Private Rented Enforcement Policy attached at Appendix 1 of the report and the Private Rented Civil Penalty Policy attached at Appendix 2; (iii)authorise the Director of Public Health and the Director of Housing and Property Services to develop future Polices and Guidance relating the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, including, but not limited to, the enforcement of the Act as considered appropriate in consultation with the Cabinet member for Community Safety and the Climate Emergency, Director of Housing and the Director of Resources and Head of Law; and (iv)authorise the Director of Public Health and Director of Housing and Property Services to keep the Policies and Guidance referred to in recommendations (ii) and (iii) above under review and to be responsible for all matters relating to the Policies and Guidance, including, but not limited to, making amendments to the Policies and Guidance in consultation with the Cabinet member for Community Safety and the Climate Emergency, Cabinet Member for Housing, the Director of Resources and the Head of Law.   Reason for the Decision:   By making appropriate delegations the Authority will be able to enforce the provisions of the Act and to take action should breaches be found. This decision ensures that the Authority can meet its statutory duties under section 107 of the Act when it is implemented. The Policies referred to in recommendations 2 and 3 of paragraph 1.2 of the report will provide a clear and consistent framework for enforcement decision making and as stated will support alignment with the Act and national Guidance.   This decision minimises risk of legal challenge, ensures that the Authority is implementing the Act effectively and that the intended tenant protections are driven forward.    This decision provides the most robust, legally compliant, and consistent approach to enforcement under the Act, while allowing for managed transition and alignment with national best practice.  

Date of Decision: March 16, 2026