Adapting to government legislation

Including, but not limited to:

The Renters Rights Bill is currently going through the legislative process, but in its latest form it will have a significant impact on the private rented sector and the wider work of the council. The council's role in the implementation of this bill includes the following:

• the creation of a private rented sector database to be used by local authorities to identify poor quality and non-compliant properties, and who owns them
• a private rented sector ombudsman service will be established - local authorities can take action against landlords who do not join, or anyone marketing a property owned by an unregistered landlord
• the bill will commit the government to consulting on plans for reformed Decent Homes standard which will be expanded to apply to private rented properties
• strengthened local authority enforcement powers, and a requirement for local authorities to report on enforcement activity
• impact on the work of the housing options team and a potential increase in households registering for social housing

The Support Housing (Regulatory Oversight) Act 2023 came into force in August 2023. Changes affecting local authorities are:

• a requirement to review supported housing in their areas and develop strategies
• powers to create local licensing schemes for exempt accommodation

The impact of the Supported Housing (Regulatory Oversight) Act 2023 will be examined in detail in the Supported Housing Strategy.

A legislative framework will be introduced as progress is made towards devolved local powers for Cumbria. The council will have to react to each piece of legislation and ensure that key areas, such as housing, are ready to function on day one of the Strategic Authority.