Purpose

To update the Private Sector Housing Civil Penalties Policy in light of the changes brought about by the enactment of the Renters Rights Act 2025.

Decision

The purpose of the item was to consider the renewal of the Civil Penalties and Enforcement Policy for Private Sector Housing, originally introduced in July 2025, prior to the enactment of the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, to reflect the additional powers and duties arising from Act.

Councillor Mike Evemy, Leader of the Council, introduced the report and asked Cabinet to consider and approve the renewed Policy.

Cabinet heard that the renewed Policy had brought the Council’s existing civil penalties arrangements into line with the additional powers provided by the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, enabling civil penalties to be issued as an alternative to prosecution where landlords were in breach.

The Cabinet noted that an informal approach would continue to be followed wherever possible to resolve issues before formal enforcement action was required. It was also noted that regular discussions with Legal Services had been introduced to support the appropriate application of civil penalties and reduce the potential for appeals.

The Cabinet noted that the Policy had been based on national guidance and had been tailored to the Cotswold District, with a standard formula for calculating penalties to support consistency.

The recommendation was proposed by Councillor Mike Evemy, seconded by Councillor Juliet Layton and put to the vote.

Cabinet RESOLVED to:

1. Approve the Housing Civil Penalties Policy

Voting record:

7 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstentions.