Council targets letting agents for views on stricter enforcement
Summary
Bath & North East Somerset Council is consulting on a tougher housing enforcement policy aimed at landlords and letting agents, with higher starting penalties for certain electrical safety breaches and HMO fire standard failures. The update reflects new duties and powers introduced through the Renters Rights Act and is intended to support fair, transparent and proportionate local enforcement.
Why it matters
Residential surveyors may encounter properties affected by local enforcement action, licensing issues or safety non-compliance, particularly in the private rented sector. The proposed penalty framework highlights the growing emphasis on electrical safety and fire standards in HMOs, which can influence risk assessments and due diligence.
Key points
- Bath & North East Somerset Council is consulting on stricter enforcement against landlords.
- Proposed starting penalties include £12,000 for some electrical safety misdemeanours.
- Failure to comply with HMO fire standards could start at £20,000.
- Penalties may increase by 50% where aggravating factors are present.
- The policy update follows new duties and powers under the Renters Rights Act.
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