Why the outrageous increases in landlord fines misses the mark?

Like many other Renters’ Rights Act policies being introduced, the increase in fines appears to be based on populist belief and emotion. It is hoped the fines will benefit tenants. However, there is a somewhat obvious flaw in this plan, as AI points to most existing fines already going uncollected.

AI says: “Between 2023/24 and 2024/25, English local councils issued almost £30 million in civil penalties to private landlords, but roughly £22.3 million (about 75%) went uncollected. Data compiled via Freedom of Information requests shows that only about a quarter around £7.5 million, was successfully recovered.”

A competent government may have first established the foundations needed to ensure fines could be collected and addressed the gaping failures in the collection process before introducing new fines that may prove uncollectable.

What does the Property118 community think?

Thanks,

Paul