Councillors in Cheshire East have amended their housing policy to crack down on rogue landlords operating in Crewe and Nantwich. Private landlords have been warned to expect tough penalties if they don’t comply with the revised housing standards. Landlords who continue to supply poor quality housing could face a number of serious penalties.
Landlords will have to ensure their properties meet the minimum energy efficiency standards. If they don’t bring their properties up to scratch, they could be fined up to £5,000. Serious offenders will be banned from letting properties in the district.
Cracking Down on Rogue Landlords
These powers are in addition to existing options available to the council’s housing department. Currently, the council can pursue rogue landlords through the courts for up to £30,000, as well as ask the court to enforce rent repayment orders in relation to some housing offences.
The council has had no option but to get tough on a small minority of landlords who continue to flout the rules and provide low-quality housing to tenants.
“Disappointingly, though, there are a small number who either do not understand their legal responsibilities when providing housing or deliberately ignore their duties,” says Councillor Ainsley Arnold.
HMO Licencing Laws
HMO landlords can now access a guide, which tells them what they need to do, and the standards expected of them. This should help landlords who are unaware of or ignore their duties.
As of 1 October 2018, HMO landlords with 5+ occupants from two or more households living in a single property must apply for a landlord licence. If they don’t, they could face an unlimited fine.
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