URL: https://brentwood.moderngov.co.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1339

Decision Maker: Council

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose: Policy Approval for Housing Enforcement and Civil Penalties

Content: The report sought Council approval for the Housing Enforcement Policy and Civil Penalties Policy that have been drafted to incorporate statutory and discretionary powers under the Renters Rights Act 2025 which is now in force. The report sets out the main provisions of the legislation, the new responsibilities placed on the Council and the implications for the Council’s resources.   The new legislation places further requirements on services making landlord enforcement mandatory and protects tenants from no fault evictions. There is a short timescale to deliver a new service, approve policies, set charges and design the service to meet the deadline of 1 May 2026.   The report sets out the timetable for implementation of the legislation and the action being taken to ensure that the Council is ready to implement the new powers and duties and ensure compliance with the legislation.   A working group formed from Members of the Housing, Health and Community Committee will be reviewing the Policies on 12 March 2026 and have recommended for the policies to be approved.   Cllr Dr Barrett MOVED and Cllr Davies SECONDED the recommendations in the report.  A vote was taken by a show of hands and it was RESOLVED to:   R1. That the Council approves the Housing Enforcement Policy and Civil Penalties Policy as detailed in this report.   R2. That delegated authority is granted to the Strategic Director for Finance (S151 Officer) in consultation with the Director of Communities and Health and the Chairman of Housing, Health and Communities Committee to agree an interim set of Fees and Charges for the Civil Penalties Policy.   R3. To review charges and performance of the Civil Penalties Policy after six months of operation and report back to the relevant committee.    

Date of Decision: March 23, 2026