‘We’re coming for you’ landlords warned by big Midlands council
Landlords have been warned that West Midlands Combined Authority will use its new powers under the Renters’ Rights Act to launch a major crackdown on those who fail to obey the rules.
Mayor Richard Parker (pictured) says: “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.”
“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.
“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.”
Local councils will be legally responsible
Local councils will be legally responsible for overseeing the new laws, backed by increased enforcement powers and support from the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA).
The new regime gives councils the power to issue higher civil fines and seek rent repayment orders directly, with penalties as high as £40,000 for repeat or serious breaches.
According to WMCA, there are 225,000 privately rented homes in the West Midlands, but a quarter fail to meet minimum standards of decency due to damp, mould and cold.
Pic: WMCA
The post ‘We’re coming for you’ landlords warned by big Midlands council appeared first on The Negotiator.
Author: Gemma
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