Editor's note: This brief was summarised by The Property AI Newsroom from a report by Landlord Today. Read the original article for full details.
Bristol council issues £13,090 fine in first penalty under strengthened policy
Bristol council has served its first civil penalty notice under a strengthened policy, using new powers under the Renters Rights Act. The penalty totals £13,090.
The fine relates to an alleged failure by a portfolio landlord to apply for a licence for an HMO under Bristol's citywide additional licensing scheme.
What this means for agents and clerks
The case shows councils are now actively using their strengthened enforcement powers. Letting agents managing HMOs in Bristol should ensure licensing applications are in place under the citywide additional licensing scheme, and inventory clerks should be aware that licensing status may come under closer scrutiny in documentation and compliance checks.
Source: Landlord Today