Issue - meetings

To seek approval to replace the existing civil penalty policy.

Members received a report to seek approval to replace the existing Civil Penalty policy for certain Housing offences within the private rented sector due to case law and impending legislative changes.

In response to questions from members, officers confirmed that:

-        In response to poor energy efficiency ratings and the re-housing of tenants, private landlords had insurance in place and were encouraged to use this to deal with this issue.

-        Five penalties had been issued since the previous policy had been in place.

It was moved by Councillor Mullaney, seconded by Councillor Bools and

                    RESOLVED –

(i)              That members agreed to the replacement of the Council’s existing Civil Penalty Policy with ‘Justice for Tenants’ Civil Penalty Policy in the wake of sweeping legislative changes affecting the private rented sector.

(ii)             That members agreed for delegated authority be given to the Director of Community Services in consultation with the Executive Lead for Housing should changes to the policy be required.