What the new council powers mean for landlords

In fact, they are now responsible for this. As of December last year, councils are backed by stronger legal authorities to oversee the work of landlords.

So, what does this mean for people in the industry? Let’s look at how landlords can adapt to changes and avoid financial penalties.

Councils can enter a business premises

The RRA asks that local housing authorities become more proactive in spotting issues. They must look at whether landlords are meeting their responsibilities and keeping the records to prove it. With that in mind, council representatives have the power to enter a business premises (usually with at least 24 hours’ notice) if they believe there might be a problem. They can enter a property under certain circumstances, too. Here, they can request relevant documents or look for evidence of broken rules. They might take a photo or a recording, for example.

Documents can be from the last 12 months and include:

• Tenancy agreements
• Gas Safe certificates
• Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs)
• Right to rent records
• Deposit protection certificates and prescribed information
• Legal notices
• Repair and maintenance records

Landlords must keep organised tenancy records

Do you create records as you go along? Update safety certificates when they expire? From now on, you’ll need to prepare for any last-minute visits from the council by keeping all tenancy documents in one easy-to-access system. Doing so will save you from a lot of stress, especially if you have several properties to manage.

If you haven’t already, you might want to keep digital copies of all records. This makes it easier to:

• Track which certificates and documents need updating
• Protect records from getting lost or damaged
• Find the right one in a hurry
• Set up reminders for any admin jobs

Tougher fines if landlords break the rules

While landlords have always been required to keep tenancy documents, the financial risks are now greater if you don’t. Councils can charge fines of up to £7,000 if a landlord doesn’t comply with new RRA rules. This amount rises to £40,000 if a landlord doesn’t change their ways – or commits a serious offence.

Additionally, local authorities or tenants can require landlords to pay back rent by arranging rent repayment orders.

The first phase of wider reform

These new council powers were introduced on 27 December 2025 during the first phase of the Renters’ Rights Act implementation. Landlords must get up to speed with this change before others come into force in May. These upcoming law changes include the end of Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions, the transition to periodic tenancies, and limits for rent increases.

Look out for further updates from Winkworth

We’ll keep you in the loop with relevant changes for landlords and tenants in the private rental sector. You can also find more details on government webpages. And if you’re looking for advice on letting your property? Speak to one of our experienced team members who’d love to help you.