Cabinet supports stronger powers to protect private renters
Cabinet councillors last night (Wednesday, June 10) approved a new policy to strengthen how Eastbourne Borough Council protects tenants and raises standards in the private rented sector.
The new approach sets out a clear framework for enforcement, giving the council stronger powers to intervene early where serious breaches are identified, while continuing to support responsible landlords who comply with the law.
Councillor Peter Diplock, Cabinet Member for Housing and Homelessness, said: "This policy is about getting the balance right. Our priority is to protect tenants and drive up standards, while being open and fair with landlords about what is expected of them."
Key changes include:
- A strengthened council approach to enforcement where landlord legislation is breached.
- Clearer guidance on when formal action will be taken, including for serious or repeat offences.
- Prioritising tenant safety and housing standards.
- A robust framework of civil penalties - these are financial penalties the council can issue to landlords who break housing law, as an alternative to prosecution, with all income reinvested in improving housing standards.
The policy also provides clarity for landlords, tenants and letting agents about what is expected and how enforcement decisions are made, helping to ensure consistency in the way the council regulates the private rented sector.
Councillor Diplock added: "The Renters' Rights Act gives councils stronger duties to act, and this policy ensures we are ready to use those powers proportionately and transparently to keep residents safe and living in well-maintained homes. We will be sharing further updates over the coming months to ensure tenants and landlords alike understand what this policy means in practice."
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