Following our previous correspondence we are writing to update you on an important change in the law that came into effect on 27th December, following the introduction of the Renters’ Rights Act 2025.
While many of the headline reforms will not apply until May 2026, the government has chosen to activate local authority enforcement powers early. As mentioned previously, local councils already have enforcement powers and are busy enough, but it is important we make you aware of this change.
From 27th December, local councils have been given enhanced powers and a legal duty to enforce existing rental legislation. Essentially, this means councils can now take a much more proactive approach when checking landlord and agent compliance.
What powers do councils now have?
Under these powers, councils can:
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Request and inspect landlord or agent documentation, including tenancy agreements, safety certificates, deposit details, licensing evidence and more
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Enter business premises to inspect compliance records, typically with notice but in some cases without
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Inspect rented properties, often by providing the tenant with short notice such as 24 hours, and without always notifying the landlord first
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Access third party data to support investigations
Alongside investigatory powers, councils are now under a statutory duty to enforce relevant housing legislation in their area rather than acting only reactively.
What this means in practice
Local authorities must:
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Proactively investigate suspected breaches of rental law
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Consider appropriate enforcement action once non compliance is identified, not just issue warnings
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Impose civil penalties and other enforcement where breaches are substantiated
This is not new law, but enforcement of existing obligations in a significantly stronger way. Councils have been given additional funding specifically to support enforcement and are expected to actively investigate non compliance, including cross checking data across departments.
What this means for you as a landlord
If your property paperwork is in order, there is nothing new you need to do today. However, landlords who have gaps in documentation or overdue compliance items may now be at greater risk of enforcement action.
How we are supporting you
As your managing agent, we are already:
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Reviewing compliance documentation held on file
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Monitoring renewal dates for safety certificates
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Ensuring repair and maintenance records are up to date
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Preparing for the wider changes coming in 2026
If we identify anything missing or requiring attention, we will contact you directly with clear guidance on next steps.
Key message
Good record keeping and compliance are more important than ever. This is especially important for those landlords who instruct their own certificates.
If you have any questions about your property or would like reassurance that your documentation is fully compliant, please do not hesitate to contact our expert team.
