Issue - meetings

The Chair has authorised the addition of this item to the agenda for the following reason:

The Renters Rights Bill will introduce comprehensive changes to the housing legislation and it is anticipated that the bill will be enacted in April 2025.  In view of corporate significance and the expected substantial impact on the Council’s operations, it is important that this Committee is fully sighted on the proposed changes.

The Committee resolved to agree that they had considered the update to the Renters Rights Bill.

The Principal Environmental Health Officer presented to the Committee a verbal update on the Renters Rights Bill which was currently going through the parliamentary process, due to be implemented later this year and was the most significant housing legislation in 40 years, aiming to improve security, standards and enforcement in the private rented sector. Key provisions included ending Section 21 evictions, introducing a Decent Homes Standard for private rentals, and establishing a Private Rented Sector Database and Ombudsman. The Bill also addressed rental discrimination, rent increases, and the practice of rental bidding. Enforcement measures included civil penalties for non-compliance and expanded investigatory powers for local councils. The Bill was expected to be implemented swiftly, with new burdens funding to support Council enforcement duties.

During the discussion, members of the Committee welcomed the bill, highlighting its potential to support renters in Spelthorne, noting the long term benefits in avoiding emergency homelessness situations and improving housing stock. Concerns were however raised about the impact of this bill on the committee’s budget, questioning if there was provision for extra Environmental Health staff and if government funding will be sufficient. The Deputy Chief Executive noted the lack of clarity around funding, with some funding expected in the upcoming financial years. The need to respond quickly to key changes was also emphasised, with a suggestion to draw down reserves to accommodate additional resources if necessary. The Group Head, Place Protection and Prosperity mentioned that tenancy reform and enforcement will be prioritised first. The Committee requested that an additional paper be brought back to a future committee to demonstrate how the bill will work in practice once passed, to which officers agreed they will involve Councillors by sharing relevant updates. The setting up of a project board at a corporate level was also mentioned, which would involve multiple services to assist in the redesigning of processes and procedures.

The Committee resolved to agree that they had considered the update to the Renters Rights Bill.