Reducing inequalities is a priority for Calderdale Council’s Cabinet and at the meeting on Monday 16 March, members will discuss new ways to strengthen housing enforcement and keep communities safe and healthy.
Poor housing can lead to serious health issues such as asthma, respiratory and cold‑related illness and mental health problems.
It is currently estimated that Calderdale has 18,000 privately rented homes, and the vast majority of landlords take their responsibilities very seriously.
However, when complaints are received about rented accommodation, the Council is committed to its enforcement responsibilities, and issues raised are fully investigated, with inspections and intervention carried out when necessary.
New national laws, including the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, give councils stronger powers to deal with issues including dangerous or poor housing conditions. The Council is proposing the introduction of Civil Penalty Notices (CPNs) for housing offences.
These fines would be imposed against landlords or letting agents who fail to keep homes safe, commit illegal evictions, or create hazards that could harm tenants. The amount of the fine would depends on how serious the problem is and the extent to which the landlord is responsible for the hazard. Each hazard can receive its own penalty.
Cabinet will also discuss expanding the use of fixed penalty notices (FPNs) for animal welfare offences, such as improper care or unsafe animal by‑product handling. By taking fast enforcement action it would help prevent suffering and protect against diseases like avian flu or foot‑and‑mouth, which can devastate communities and the farming industry.
The introduction of these penalty notices would allow the Council to act quickly without having to go through lengthy court processes.
Cabinet is being asked to support these proposals and recommend them to the full Council for further approval.
Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Services and Communities, Cllr Danielle Durrans, said:
“Everybody has a right to live in a safe, secure and comfortable home, and we take our responsibilities around housing enforcement very seriously.
“We know that most private landlords in Calderdale treat their tenants fairly, but when we receive reports of unacceptable standards, or unsafe conditions, we are committed to taking swift and strong action.
“Legislation to allow us to issue penalty notices would strengthen our enforcement powers and see us getting tough on poor landlords or letting agents. Not only would this protect residents, but would also support responsible landlords.
“We’re also looking to increase our animal welfare enforcement. Issuing penalties would ensure that our resources are used effectively, minimising lengthy court processes, keeping animals safe and healthy and supporting our farming community.”
The introduction of increased enforcement powers for housing and animal welfare is being discussed at the meeting of the Council’s Cabinet on Monday 16 March at Halifax Town Hall from 4pm. The meeting will also be streamed online at https://calderdale.public-i.tv/core/portal/home(external link)
ENDS