Purpose

Approval of policies under The Renters Rights Act and change to executive scheme of delegation

Decision

The Committee has considered a report detailing a package of proposed Housing Authority Enforcement Policies and has given approval to:-

(1) The Housing Authority Enforcement Policy (Appendix 1), which includes:

·         Statement of principles to determine penalty charges under Smoke and CO Regulations

·         Statement of Principles to determine penalty charge for a breach of Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES).

(2) The accompanying standalone policy relating to the how financial penalties are calculated and issued in relation to private sector housing offences and lettings breaches as follows:

·         Civil Penalties under the Renters’ Rights Act and other housing legislation (Appendix 2).

(3) Pursuant to paragraph 1.4 of the Cabinet Procedure Rules, the amendment and updating of the council’s scheme of delegation, to allow the Director of Place Management to authorise officers to use the new powers and duties in the Act and associated legislation which the Act amends, as necessary and if required.

(4) Modifications and updates to the policy, such as those in response to changes to legislation and new statutory requirements, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Housing & Environment.

Alternative options considered

Do nothing - This option is not recommended because this option would prevent the Council from enforcing its statutory duties under the Renters Rights Act 2025.