Enforcement of standards in the private rented sector in England and Wales is undermined by underfunding, weak legislation, and inaccurate data that councils can’t fully access. This is to the detriment of tenants in energy inefficient homes, dealing with damp and cold, and paying high energy bills. The government needs to fund and reform enforcement systems so renters can feel the benefit of both stronger renters’ rights and new energy efficiency standards.
For this report, we interviewed 30 stakeholders working on the front line of enforcing standards in the private rented sector at national and local levels. The interviews revealed a consistent story of professionals working to the best of their ability, with limited funding and resources to fully apply the law.
New safety and energy efficiency standards for privately rented homes are central to the government’s strategy to increase economic growth and improve people’s quality of life. The standards could make the indoor environment healthier for around 7 million renters, and reduce average energy bills in the sector by £240 a year – if they are fully implemented.
But those benefits will only be felt if the government delivers a fresh strategy to encourage, support and enforce compliance.
Based on our findings, we set out 5 policies to significantly improve enforcement of existing and new standards in the private rented sector. To make implementation simpler for landlords, tenants and councils, decency and energy efficiency standards should be considered jointly.
5 policies to improve enforcement of standards in the private rented sector
- Introduce a mandatory English national landlord register and clarify the role of Rent Smart Wales
- Fund the custodians of local standards via a flat fee levied when a new property is listed on the national landlord register.
- Reform legislation to simplify and tighten the options for local enforcement of noncompliant homes.
- Commit to a 5-year strategy for grant support for landlords with low-income tenants and solutions for retrofitting apartment blocks.
- Empower tenants to take action and close loopholes which leave tenants vulnerable when landlords make property improvements.
Download the policy briefing for an overview of the main research findings and most important recommendations.
Download the research report for full details of the findings and comprehensive recommendations for each policy area.
