Rogue landlords
Newham Council has increased fines for rogue landlords, while Hillingdon Council is implementing a new HMO licensing scheme.
Newham Council increased potential fines for rogue landlords in May 2026, approving a revised Private Sector Housing Enforcement Policy. This policy, signed by Interim Chief Executive Paul Martin in April 2026, includes a 10% uplift on civil penalty starting points, reflecting higher local rents. This measure aims to bolster tenant protections and will be reviewed annually.
Hillingdon Council's Cabinet decided in February 2026 to implement a borough-wide licensing scheme for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). This five-year scheme, under the Housing Act 2004, aims to improve housing standards and address anti-social behaviour. Landlords must comply by August 2026, with enforcement beginning in August 2026.
The topic of rogue landlords refers to landlords who fail to meet their legal obligations, providing substandard or unsafe housing. Councils are working to ensure landlords adhere to minimum housing standards and address concerns about poorly managed properties.
Key facts
- Newham Council's Interim Chief Executive Paul Martin signed a revised Private Sector Housing Enforcement Policy on April 29, 2026. Source
- Newham Council's revised policy introduces a discretionary 10% uplift on civil penalty starting points for rogue landlords. Source
- Hillingdon Council's Cabinet decided to implement a borough-wide HMO licensing scheme on February 19, 2026. Source
- Hillingdon's HMO licensing scheme requires landlord compliance by August 23, 2026, with enforcement starting August 24, 2026. 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 1 October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.