Decision details

Civil Penalties Policy

Decision Maker: Cabinet member for tenants and those in housing need

Decision status: Recommendations Approved

Is Key decision?: No

Is subject to call in?: Yes

Purpose:

To note and agree to the use of the new powers allowing the Council to impose civil penalties as summarised in Section 2 of this report.

Decision:

(1)       To approve the Civil Penalties Policy attached at Appendix 1.

 

(2)       To delegate authority to the Regulatory Services Lead, in consultation with Legal Services to agree the sum of civil penalties to be issued on a case by case basis in accordance with the proposed policy with the reviewing Officer to be the Head of Regulatory Services.

Reasons for the decision:

The recommendations will enable the Council to utilise additional legislative powers as an alternative to prosecution for certain private housing offences. The Penalties are a quick, easy, cost-effective sanction and a useful tool in driving up management standards within the private rented sector as well as income generating for the team.

Alternative options considered:

Consideration given to the provisions of the upcoming Renters Rights Bill.

Publication date: 23/01/2025

Date of decision: 23/01/2025

Effective from: 29/01/2025

Accompanying Documents: