URL: https://rds.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=4453

Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content: The Portfolio Holder for Regulatory Services, Cllr P Keska, introduced a report on the Renters Rights Act 2025.   Cllr P Keska reported that the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 would come into force on 1st May 2026, and introduced significant reforms to the regulation of the private rented sector and placed expanded duties on local authorities in relation to enforcement and tenants’ protection. Key reforms included abolishing Section 21 "no-fault" evictions, replacing fixed-term contracts with periodic tenancies, limiting rent increases to once per year, and introducing a Mandatory Landlord Ombudsman. The Council had a statutory duty to comply with the new legislation and required officers to be authorised under the following:   ·        Section 15       Landlords etc: financial penalties and offences; ·        Section 16       Financial penalties; ·        Section 17       Duties of landlords etc, penalties and offences; and ·        Section 90-96 Enforcement Part 4 (sections 102-136)   Members felt that ‘good’ Landlords would not be concerned by the new legislation, but emphasised the importance of providing Tenants and Landlords with clear guidance as soon as was practically possible. The Chairman of the Council confirmed that a briefing for Members would be arranged in the new municipal year due to the complexity of the legislation.   Resolved:   (1)        That delegated authority be given to the Service Director – Regulatory Services to exercise the functions of the Council arising from the Renters Rights Act 2025; and   (2)        That delegated authority be given to the Monitoring Officer to amend the Scheme of Delegation contained in Part 3, Appendix 3 of the Constitution accordingly.

Date of Decision: April 9, 2026