Rented Accommodation

The Private Sector Housing Team work with private landlords and tenants.  The Team, as officers of the Council, have the power to compel landlords to carry out works of repair or improvement in order to meet the prescribed standard within the Housing Health & Safety Rating System.

The Housing Health & Safety Rating System replaced the old “fitness standard” and this is detailed in the Housing Act 2004 and the guidance document at the bottom of the page. Enforcement of this standard applies to all residential property including those that are rented privately.

Homes should provide a safe and healthy environment for occupiers and their visitors. To achieve this, all dwellings should be designed, constructed and maintained to be free from unnecessary and avoidable hazards. It is not possible to eliminate all hazards, and reasonable allowances have to be made, especially in older properties. In general, it is the owner's responsibility to maintain the property and to carry out repairs. Tenants have a responsibility to treat the property with respect, to report any hazards and necessary repairs to their landlord, and to co-operate with any reasonable request by the landlord to gain access to carry out repairs.

When repairs or maintenance are required, tenants should always contact the landlord in the first instance. If a landlord ignores a tenant's request or refuses to carry out necessary repairs, we may be able to offer help and advice. An officer will discuss the details or arrange to visit. Where unacceptable hazards exist in the premises, the officer will contact the landlord to discuss the condition and the options available. Enforcement procedures are available where informal action is unsuccessful or inappropriate.

The team also undertake the licensing of Houses in Multiple Occupation and the Accreditation of landlords who provide decent accommodation and offer the best standards in property management.

The team aims to work with landlords and tenants to improve the condition of private sector lettings in relation to safety standards and repair.  In cases which merit legal action, notices are served requiring landlords to comply with current housing standards and legislation through our Enforcement Policy.