Changes to Telford & Wrekin Council's private sector housing enforcement policy approved by cabinet
Changes to Telford & Wrekin Council’s current private sector housing enforcement policy have been approved by Cabinet.
An update on the ‘Better Homes For All’ programme recommended updates to the policy which include an amended fee structure for civil penalties and electrical safety regulations.
The initiative aims to improve housing conditions in the private rented sector across the borough and tackle landlords who don’t adhere to the rules.
During the past year, the council has addressed 597 requests for service from tenants living in poor housing conditions and carried out 412 inspections, identifying 480 hazards including falls, damp and mould and fire hazards.
A total of 64 proactive inspections have also completed in support of the Building Safer and Stronger Communities programme.
In addition, the council has tackled rogue landlords and agents by issuing 156 enforcement notices, 44 HMO licences and 12 civil penalty notices, as well as successfully prosecuting a local letting agency.
Since Better Homes For All was launched, 232 long-term empty properties have been brought back into use.
Councillor Richard Overton (Lab), Telford & Wrekin Council’s deputy leader and Cabinet member for homes, enforcement and customer services, said: “Through our Better Homes For All programme, we remain committed to building safer, stronger and healthier communities while protecting and enhancing our environment and neighbourhoods.
“The private rented sector (PRS) has doubled in size over the last 10 years and as home ownership continues to be unaffordable, along with a decline in social housing, it means the private rented sector is plugging an essential gap in the market.
“We acknowledge that the majority of landlords operate legally and ensure their properties meet the correct standards and our Better Homes For All programme works to educate and encourage before we move to enforcement.
“This report highlights the work undertaken by the council in the last 12 months to support our residents in rented accommodation and both support and hold landlords to account.”