If you are a landlord or a letting agent, you have probably heard that section 21 “no fault” evictions have gone. What many landlords have not yet realised is how much bigger the fines are now, and how much easier it is for councils to issue them!
How much can a landlord be fined?
Since 1 May 2026, councils in England can fine a landlord:
- up to £7,000 for a first breach of most of the new tenancy rules
- up to £40,000 for serious or repeated breaches, illegal eviction and the main HMO and licensing offences
Councils can issue these fines themselves, without taking you to court.
What can I be fined for?
Some of the most common breaches are:
- not giving your tenant a written statement of the tenancy terms
- trying to set up a fixed-term tenancy, which is no longer allowed for most private lets
- telling a tenant to leave without following the proper process
- refusing to rent to someone because they have children or receive benefits
- accepting offers above the advertised rent
- renting out an HMO without the licence it needs, or not keeping it safe
Can tenants claim back their rent?
Yes. Tenants can now apply for a rent repayment order of up to two years’ rent, up from one year. If you have already been fined for the same offence, the tribunal will usually order the maximum. So paying a fine does not always close the matter.
Is there more to come?
Yes. A national landlord register, the private rented sector database, is on its way, and London landlords are expected to register their properties in 2027. A new landlord ombudsman is also planned.
What should landlords do now?
- Make sure your tenancy agreements have been updated for the new rules
- Check whether each of your properties needs a licence from the council
- Keep gas, electrical and fire safety checks up to date, and keep the records
- If the council writes to you, get advice straight away, as the deadlines are short
How we can help
Some of our lawyers have worked as prosecution lawyers for councils, so we know how councils approach these cases. At Reen Anderson Solicitors, we help landlords and letting agents get their properties compliant, deal with councils and challenge fines.
If you would like to talk anything through, call us on 0207 101 2628 or email info@reenanderson.com.
This article is general information about the law in England, not legal advice on your situation.