Council uses new powers to dramatically increase fine on landlord
Summary
Bristol council has issued its first civil penalty notice under a strengthened enforcement policy, fining a portfolio landlord £13,090 for an alleged failure to licence an HMO under the city’s additional licensing scheme. The case illustrates how councils can now use higher civil penalties for housing-related offences, with the landlord also facing the possibility of a Rent Repayment Order and a tribunal appeal if the notice is finalised.
Why it matters
Residential property surveyors advising landlords, investors or managing agents need to be aware of the increased enforcement risk around HMO licensing and local authority civil penalties. The case also highlights how prior non-compliance and rent levels can affect penalty calculations and tenant remedies.
Key points
- Bristol council used new powers under the Renters Rights Act to issue a civil penalty notice.
- The alleged breach relates to failure to apply for an HMO licence under the citywide additional licensing scheme.
- The proposed penalty was increased due to the landlord’s history of non-compliance, then reduced after a licence application was submitted within 14 days.
- The council noted that tenants may seek a Rent Repayment Order for up to two years’ rent.
- The landlord can make representations and may appeal to a tribunal if a final penalty notice is served.
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