Landlords who fail to fix serious hazards now face fines of up to £7,000 as the Government launches a crackdown on unsafe rental housing.

The new penalty, introduced through the Renters’ Rights Act, gives councils stronger enforcement powers against landlords who breach safety rules.

The fines apply to 21 Category 1 hazards identified under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS).

Housing Secretary Steve Reed (pictured) said: “Renters deserve a safe, secure place to call home and our landmark Renters’ Rights Act gives councils more options to take speedy action against rogue landlords.

A situation that no family should have to live with.”

“These include the new power to issue a £7,000 penalty to a landlord when there is a hazard like severe damp or mould in a privately rented home – a situation that no family should have to live with.”

Reed added: “Alongside the new fines, this government is updating the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) for the first time in 20 years.”

Dangerous risks

The revised HHSRS framework comes into force today, 23rd June.

It is intended to make it easier for councils to identify dangerous risks and take enforcement action.

Clara Collingwood, Director at the Renters’ Reform Coalition, said: “It’s great that authorities have new powers to tackle this, and they must start using them immediately to crack down on landlords who profit from unhealthy homes.”