Council proposes tougher fines for landlords breaching standards

Bath and North East Somerset Council is among the first local authorities to use new powers that could increase fines against rogue landlords.

The Renter’s Rights Act gave councils new powers to set their own fines against BTL landlords for failures such as keeping a property in poor condition.

Residents in Bath and North East Somerset are now being asked for their views on plans to take stronger action against poor housing conditions and rogue landlords.

An updated Housing Services Enforcement & Financial Penalty Policy 2026 proposes increasing housing fines by up to 50% where the council finds aggravating factors such as previous non-compliance or breach lasting more than six months.

When deciding on an appropriate final penalty, the council also suggests an upward or downward adjustment of up to 20% to reflect the portfolio size, experience and status of the landlord who is being penalised.

Suggested starting penalties include £3,000 for failure to provide information or documentation to tenants and £20,000 for not complying with houses in multiple occupation fire standards.

Councillor Matt McCabe, cabinet member for built environment, housing and sustainable development, said: “Good housing is vital to safer communities, better health and a fairer private rented sector. Everyone deserves a safe home.

“Most landlords in Bath and North East Somerset act responsibly and provide good quality accommodation, and this policy will support them with clear guidance.

“The Renters’ Rights Act gives councils an important new role in protecting tenants and raising standards across the private rented sector.

“This updated policy explains how we will use those powers locally, ensuring enforcement is fair, transparent and proportionate.

“The consultation is open to everyone, but we particularly want to hear from landlords, tenants, letting agents and residents before the policy is finalised to ensure it works for you.”