Landlords may face fines of up to £7,000 starting this week if they fail to address substandard living conditions. The penalties will be enforced for issues like dampness, mold, extreme cold, electrical faults, fire risks, structural problems, and hazardous layouts.

Approximately 10% of privately rented properties are believed to have at least one of these unsafe issues. These new measures are part of the recently introduced Renters’ Rights Act.

Local councils already have the authority to compel landlords to fix serious hazards within a specified timeframe and can take legal action against non-compliant landlords. In cases of immediate danger, councils can undertake emergency repairs themselves and recover the costs from landlords.

Housing Secretary Steve Reed emphasized the importance of providing renters with secure and safe homes under the Renters’ Rights Act. The legislation empowers councils to take swift action against irresponsible landlords, including the ability to levy fines for severe living conditions such as dampness or mold.

Generation Rent’s Chief Executive, Ben Twomey, stressed the significance of improving the quality of rental properties to ensure the well-being of tenants. The enforcement of fines on landlords who neglect repairs is seen as a crucial step in enhancing the standard of rented accommodations.

Clara Collingwood, Director at the Renters’ Reform Coalition, highlighted the impact of substandard housing on renters’ health. With the new powers granted to authorities, there is an urgent need to address landlords who profit from maintaining unhealthy living conditions. Renters are encouraged to assert their rights and report any hazardous living conditions without fear of reprisal.