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.

Letting Agents Warned on Renters’ Rights Act Enforcement Powers

Propertymark, the letting agents’ trade body, is urging its members and landlords to ensure they understand expanding local licensing requirements, as the financial consequences of non-compliance increase under the Renters’ Rights Act 2025. The first phase of the Act has raised the maximum civil financial penalty for relevant Housing Act offences from £30,000 to £40,000.

The increased penalties apply to offences such as operating a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) or other property without a required licence, and failing to comply with licence conditions. Propertymark’s warning comes as councils across England are consulting on new and expanded selective and additional licensing schemes, as well as Article 4 Directions affecting HMOs.

Letting agents and inventory clerks are advised to stay informed about local licensing changes and the heightened enforcement powers now in effect. The changes under the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 mean that non-compliance could result in significantly higher financial penalties.