8:31 AM, 18th March 2026, 4 months ago 3 
Two councils are stepping up action on property owners in the PRS, with one releasing a caution over licensing compliance and another preparing tougher enforcement powers. In Bexley’s Gazebo ward, property managers deal with fines of up to ₤ 30,000, rising to ₤ 40,000 for not joining a selective licensing plan introduced in January last year. Nearly 1,000 applications have been sent, but officers are now taking a look at residential or commercial properties thought to be operating without a licence.
The scheme covers all independently rented homes in the ward unless exempt.
Landlords must sign up
The council’s cabinet member for neighborhoods and real estate, Cllr Brian Bishop, said: “The selective licensing plan is created to improve tenant safety, housing conditions and guarantee property owner professionalism in addition to assuring citizens in the location that the homes are safe and well looked after.
“As such, it is terrific news that so many of our proprietors have actually currently stepped forward to obtain their selective licence.
“We are however presently looking into a number of residential or commercial properties that we know are not registered to the scheme.”
He included: “I would urge those property managers in Lookout who have actually not gotten a licence to do so as quickly as possible.
“If they do not, they might deal with a big fine or prosecution.”
More property manager enforcement
Bexley council also states that enforcement work has increased together with the rollout.
Nearly 100 examinations of licensed homes have actually happened over the previous year, while officers have also visited 150 residential or commercial properties to recognize unlicensed accommodation.
Some assessments have actually recognized Category 1 risks, classed as posturing an instant risk to residents.
Officers have actually worked with property owners and managing agents to address these issues and bring homes into line.
Calderdale to broaden powers
On the other hand, in Calderdale, councillors are thinking about broadening enforcement powers covering housing conditions.
The plans include introducing Civil Penalty Notices for real estate offenses, supported by new nationwide legislation under the Tenants’ Rights Act.
There are around 18,000 privately rented homes in Calderdale and complaints about home conditions trigger assessments and intervention.
Under the proposed framework, fines might be issued to landlords or representatives for breaches including unsafe homes, illegal eviction or threats impacting tenant safety.
It says that each risk might draw in a separate charge depending on seriousness and responsibility.
Concern proprietor penalties
Calderdale’s cabinet member for communities, Cllr Danielle Durrans, stated: “We understand that the majority of private property owners in Calderdale treat their renters relatively, however when we receive reports of unacceptable standards, or unsafe conditions, we are devoted to taking quick and strong action.
“Legislation to enable us to release charge notifications would enhance our enforcement powers and see us getting tough on bad property owners or letting representatives.
“Not only would this secure citizens but would likewise support accountable property managers.”