Mayor vows crackdown on ‘rogue’ landlords with the Renters’ Rights Act

A regional mayor is warning what he calls ‘rogue’ landlords that they will face severe repercussions if they ignore the Renters’ Rights Act.

West Midlands’ mayor Richard Parker welcomed the legislation and promised the region would act swiftly to enforce the new rules, aiming to boost living standards and safety for people in private accommodation.

He urged responsible landlords to prepare during the coming months.

Will work with mayors

The mayor said: “Everyone deserves a safe, secure and decent home – it’s a fundamental right, and essential for people’s wellbeing and their ability to get on in life.

“While many landlords do right by their tenants, there are others that don’t, leaving young children in damp, unhealthy homes, and their parents living in fear of losing their home through no fault of their own.”

He added: “We must keep driving up the standard of private rental accommodation in our region and protect vulnerable people and families.

“That’s why I will be working with our local councils in using these new laws to support fair minded landlords, so they are ready for 1 May but also crackdown on those rogue landlords who have blighted too many lives for far too long.”

The act will mean change

From 1 May next year, the Act will scrap Section 21 no-fault evictions and cap rent rises to once a year.

It will also abolish fixed-term tenancies and outlaw bidding wars between prospective renters.

Landlords will gain clearer legal grounds to regain possession, such as when tenants fall behind on payments or cause nuisance.

Councils will lead enforcement, helped by the West Midlands Combined Authority that Mr Parker chairs.

Fines could reach £7,000 for first offences and climb to £40,000 for serious or repeat violations.

Tenants and authorities can also demand repayment of rent if rules are broken.

Later next year, a Landlord Ombudsman will handle disputes and there will be a compulsory database to list every private rental property.

Consultation will begin on extending Awaab’s Law into the private sector.