Fylde is committed to working collaboratively with landlords and tenants to help them understand and meet their legal obligations in a cost-effective and practical way. Our aim is to offer guidance and support wherever possible, encouraging compliance without unnecessary expense.
However, in cases where the law is repeatedly ignored or responsibilities are not taken seriously, we may need to take formal action, including prosecution where appropriate. This is to ensure the safety and well-being of tenants and the integrity of housing standards.
All enforcement activity will be carried out in line with government guidance, using fair, consistent, and transparent procedures that protect the rights of both landlords and tenants.
Property inspections will be conducted in accordance with relevant standards, guidance, and best practice.
Where improvements are needed to meet legal requirements, landlords will receive a detailed schedule of the necessary work. The inspecting officer will agree reasonable start and finish dates with the landlord to complete these works.
If a tenant’s health or safety is at immediate risk, urgent action may be required. In exceptional situations, part or all of a property may be prohibited from being occupied to prevent serious harm.
If a landlord does not carry out the agreed work, the council will begin formal enforcement. The landlord will be informed of a follow-up inspection, which will assess the property for hazards using the Housing Health and Safety Rating System, as required by the Housing Act 2004.
If any category 1 hazards are identified, statutory notices will be issued. Category 2 hazards may also result in formal notices being served.
The council is entitled to recover the costs associated with preparing and issuing these notices. Notices served will be subject to the charges below:
|
Hazard Awareness Notice |
£150 |
|
Improvement Notice |
£530 |
|
Prohibition Order |
£530 |
|
Emergency Prohibition Order |
£530 |
If a notice is served, it will include full details and information on how to appeal.
Failure to comply with a statutory notice is a summary offence and may result in legal action, including a fine of up to £5,000 upon conviction in a magistrates court.
We may also carry out investigations to identify Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) that require licensing under Part II of the Housing Act 2004. Landlords who own licensable HMOs but have not applied for a licence will be contacted and advised. If, after two warnings, a landlord still fails to apply, prosecution may follow.
