Comments about the draft private rented sector housing enforcement policy (PRSHEP) are being encouraged before the consultation period closes.
Local authorities, including Bromley, are responsible for enforcing a wide range of statutory provisions relating to private sector housing and environmental conditions affecting health, wellbeing, and safety and the various enforcement options are outlined in the draft policy which is already published.
A Bromley Council spokesperson said, “Prosecution remains an absolute last resort and what we are always seeking to do is ensure a positive outcome with the agreement and co-operation of the property owner. The same principle applies to the introduction of civil penalties, which we are proposing to use where it is appropriate to do so and as an alternative to prosecution, with views on this welcome. Whilst we are committed to working with all concerned to achieve amicable outcomes, we will not hesitate to take enforcement action where necessary when it is appropriate and proportionate to do so.”
Section 126 and Schedule 9 of the Housing and Planning Act 2016 amended the Housing Act 2004 to allow financial penalties to be imposed by local housing authorities as an alternative to prosecution for certain housing offences and the council is proposing to adopt this powers, with views invited.
Visit www.bromley.gov.uk/consultation to comment about the council’s proposed private rented sector housing enforcement policy, with consultation closing on 1 June 2021.
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For media enquiries, please contact Andrew Rogers, Communications Executive, on 020 8461 7670 or email andrew.rogers@bromley.gov.uk