Decision details

This report explains the key provisions of the Renter’s Right Act 2025 (RRA) and the implications for council services, landlords and tenants.

It sets out the additional statutory duties placed on the council and seeks approval for the necessary policies and officer delegation required to enable New Forest District Council to meet these duties effectively and lawfully.

On 27 March 2026, Cllr Steve Davies, the Portfolio Holder for Housing and Homelessness made the following decision:

That the Portfolio holder for Housing and homelessness approve the following;

1.The PSH enforcement policy and the Civil Penalties under the Renters Right Act and other legislation policy be adopted and come into force on 1st May 2026;

2.The additional clauses be added relating to parts of the RRA that will be implemented at a later date with the authority of the Strategic Director – Housing and Communities;

3.The exercise of all functions arising under the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 and associated “Landlord Legislation” be delegated to the Strategic Director – Housing & Communities; and

4.Minor adjustments to the policy be delegated to the Strategic Director – Housing and Communities

Any member of the Council, who is not a Portfolio Holder, who considers that this decision should be reviewed should give notice using the call-in facility at the top of this page on the Council’s intranet / extranet site. Alternatively, notice can be given to the Monitoring Officer (Matt Wisdom) (in writing or by e-mail) to be received ON OR BY 5.15 pm on 7 April 2026.

Details of the document the Portfolio Holder considered are attached below.

The adoption of the revised PSH enforcement policy is required to enable the Council to undertake its new duties under the RRA.

See report.