Issue - meetings

To consider the attached report of the Director of Finance, Housing and Community.

The Director of Finance, Housing and Community presented the revised Private Sector Housing Enforcement Policy to the Committee which had previously been considered at the meeting of the Cabinet on 2 October 2017. New powers for local authorities had been introduced within the Housing and Planning Act 2016 to tackle rogue landlords. The new powers included:

·         Civil penalties of up to £30,000

·         Extension of Rent Repayment Order

·         Banning order for most prolific offenders

·         Database of rogue landlords/property agents

·         Tougher fit and proper person test for landlords of licensed properties

·         Sharing data on tenancy deposit schemes with local authorities.

The use of the powers would be discretionary and there was an expectation that less than 5 cases per annum would require the use of the powers however, it was a quicker and easier process and cases could increase as a result.

There were concerns from Members that tenants would be penalised by way of revenge evictions should a complaint against the landlord be made. Members were advised that all complaints would be confidential and DDC would initiate the complaint against the landlord.

Members welcomed that revised policy and encouraged officers to publicise the new powers.

RESOLVED:  That cabinet decision CAB78 be endorsed and that the revisions to the Private Sector Housing Enforcement Policy be approved.

(With the consent of the Committee it was agreed that Councillor P M Brivio would be permitted to speak on the item.)

To consider the attached report of the Director of Finance, Housing and Community.

Responsibility: Portfolio Holder for Housing, Health and Wellbeing

It was agreed that the revisions to the Private Sector Housing Enforcement Policy be approved.