Extra funds to tackle rogue landlords

A new online reporting system is being developed to make it easier for people to report problems with poorly managed and maintained private rented housing in Brighton & Hove.

The move comes after the council successfully bid for £34,820 of government money to pay for the work. 

The new system will enable tenants experiencing problems with their home to request help, provide detailed information and upload photographs to highlight concerns.

Council staff can then quickly make a full assessment and target enforcement action to tackle problems, such as disrepair, safety concerns, damp, and excess cold, more effectively and efficiently.

Improving private rented homes

Almost a third of homes in Brighton & Hove are privately rented. 

Councillor Tracey Hill, the council’s lead member for Private Rented Sector on the Housing & New Homes Committee, said: “There are a lot of responsible landlords in the city, but we also know that many tenants are living in poor condition properties that are not properly maintained. 

“This new initiative will enable us to build on work we are already carrying out to protect tenants and improve the standard of private accommodation in the city.” 

The new online reporting form is due to be introduced in April.

Funding is from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government’s Rogue Landlord Enforcement Grant Fund.