private rented sector (PRS)
Councils are scrutinising private landlord licensing and implementing new housing enforcement policies following the Renters' Rights Act 2025.
Hackney Council's Housing and Homelessness Scrutiny Commission launched a review of its private landlord licensing system in September 2026, a story reported. This scrutiny, part of its 2026/27 work programme, addresses increasing homelessness and a shrinking private rented sector, which comprises properties rented from private landlords. A 29% decrease in successful homelessness prevention outcomes since 2025/26 was noted.
Separately, Croydon Council's Cabinet approved a new Private Sector Housing Enforcement Policy in July 2026, a story said. This policy integrates existing enforcement measures with the Renters' Rights Act 2025 (RRA25), which came into effect in May 2026. The RRA25 introduced new duties for local authorities to enforce legislation governing landlords.
Key facts
- Hackney Council's Housing and Homelessness Scrutiny Commission launched a review into private landlord licensing in September 2026. Source
- Hackney Council noted a 29% decrease in successful homelessness prevention and relief outcomes since 2025/26. Source
- Croydon Council's Cabinet approved a new Private Sector Housing Enforcement Policy on 29 July 2026. Source
- The Renters' Rights Act 2025 (RRA25) came into effect on 1 May 2026. Source
- Hackney Council is investing £145 million in a Homelessness and Temporary Accommodation Supply Transformation Programme. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.