Government pressed on enforcement against criminal landlords

The government have hinted at stronger enforcement against criminal landlords as research reveals councils collect just 25% of landlord fines.

In answer to a written question, Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook says the government will continue to engage with councils to strengthen enforcement in the private rented sector.

The news comes ahead of the Renters’ Rights Act coming into force on 1 May 2026.

Enforcement against rogue landlords

Liberal Democrat MP Clive Jones asked: “To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether he is taking steps to increase the rate of collection of civil penalties issued by local authorities against landlords for housing offences.”

In response, Mr Pennycook said: “The government engages regularly with local authorities and other relevant stakeholders in relation to how enforcement against rogue landlords in the private rented sector might be strengthened.

“Local authorities already have a range of tools that they can use to support the collection of unpaid fines imposed on rogue landlords, including charging orders and bankruptcy proceedings.

“My Department will continue to engage with local authorities and consider how best practice can be shared as part of supporting the effective implementation of the Renters’ Rights Act.”

Council powers

Under the Renters’ Rights Act, councils have the power to carry out surprise inspections, including entering premises where tenancy records are kept, and to issue fines running into thousands of pounds.

Councils can also compel landlords, letting agents, and third parties (e.g., prop tech companies, banks, accountants, contractors) to provide documents and information related to housing compliance.