Gateshead Council has slapped a landlord with its first fine for serving an illegal eviction notice since the Renters’ Rights Act came into force.

The landlord was fined £3,600 for serving a Section 21 notice after 1 May. A notice setting out the proposed fine was issued, giving them an opportunity to respond before the council confirmed the penalty, and the final notice was issued on 24 August, with payment received – reduced by 15% as they paid up within 28 days - on 8 September.

The authority reports that its private sector housing team contacted the landlord to explain the changes in the law and advise them that the no fault eviction notice wasn’t valid. The landlord was also given information about the correct legal routes available if they still wanted to seek possession of the property.

Considered

Although this is the first financial penalty issued under the new legislation, Gateshead says other cases are being considered.

Its aim is to help landlords understand their responsibilities and comply with the law, says councillor Gavin Brierley, cabinet member for housing (pictured). However, where breaches of housing legislation are identified, it will take appropriate enforcement action.

“Landlords need to know the rules and follow the correct process if they want to take back their property,” he adds. “We will help landlords understand what is expected of them, but we will take action when the law is broken.

Deserves

“Everyone deserves to feel safe and secure in their home, and we are committed to protecting tenants’ rights across Gateshead.”

Money collected through these fines will be used to support the council's work in the PRS, including checking housing standards, investigating complaints and taking action when landlords break the law.

Landlords are being encouraged to visit the government's 'Housing Hub' website for further information.

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