Landlord fines UK 2026: A municipality has introduced a new civil penalty policy for the PRS and given advice to landlords on how to deal with anti-social behaviour by tenants.
Bristol City Council has revised its Civil Penalty Policy for private housing crimes to take account of amendments made by the Renters’ Rights Act. The council said civil fines will be used “proportionately”.
The council also issued updated recommendations for landlords on how to avoid and deal with anti-social behaviour from renters.
Compliant landlords need not be concerned about increasing penalty levels
Bristol Council said civil fines will be applied “proportionately” and enforcement would be targeted at tackling bad housing conditions and “protecting tenants from harm”.
The new regulation could see landlords who flout the restrictions hit with fines of up to £35,000. Penalties include:
1. Unlawful eviction or harassment: £35 000
2. Knowingly or carelessly relying on a possession ground that cannot be used: £30,000
3. Failure to comply with an Improvement Notice £25,000
4. Not licencing an HMO when required: £17,000
But the council says landlords who are complying “should not be worried by the higher penalty levels, which are aimed at those who don’t meet the standards achieved by responsible landlords”.
The council says: “We want to make sure that penalties are fair, consistent and effective deterrents and that we raise standards for tenants across the city.
Guidance on anti-social behaviour
The council has also issued recommendations to landlords on how to deal with anti-social behaviour.
Landlords may assist avoid anti-social behaviour by setting clear expectations with tenants and dealing with problems early, they say.
The council has also issued a list of steps for landlords of licensed homes advising them to:
- Include clauses in tenancy agreements for anti-social activity.
- Get references on prospective tenants when applicable.
- Check houses routinely for symptoms of ASB.
- Provide contact details to surrounding residents as needed by licence terms.
“With the new academic year just around the corner it is important for landlords to speak to their student tenants about being good neighbours and respecting the local community, particularly in the areas of noise, waste and recycling,” the council said.
Under the Renters’ Rights Act landlords will have to establish anti-social behaviour has happened when using a discretionary ground for possession and then the court will assess if it is appropriate to evict the tenant.
A Labour Minister has said the Renters’ Rights Act will help to combat anti-social conduct.