06 Jan 26
The Christmas break is over and enforcement has already restarted.
From 27 Dec 2025, councils in England are operating under expanded powers introduced by the Renters Rights Act 2025.
These powers are live now and are being used.
This is not future legislation.
This is current enforcement.
What has changed in plain terms.
Councils can now demand tenancy and compliance documents at short notice without long lead in times.
Records going back 12 months can be examined in detail.
Business premises can be inspected and documents can be seized where legal thresholds are met.
This applies to landlords and letting agents.
What councils are asking for right now.
Tenancy agreements and proof of deposit protection are being requested.
Gas safety certificates and electrical safety reports are being checked.
Energy Performance Certificates and smoke and carbon monoxide alarm records are under scrutiny.
Right to Rent checks are being examined.
Repair histories, inspection logs and maintenance records are being demanded.
Licensing documentation is being reviewed where licensing applies.
What happens if paperwork is missing or wrong.
Civil penalties of up to £7,000 can be issued.
Serious or repeat breaches can result in fines of up to £40,000.
The most serious cases can lead to prosecution and unlimited fines.
There is no grace period.
There is no settling in phase.
What needs to happen now.
Every landlord and agent should assume enforcement activity has restarted at full speed.
All compliance documents should be reviewed and brought up to date immediately.
Expiry dates on all safety certificates should be checked without delay.
Tenancy and management records should be complete, accurate and easy to produce.
Professional advice should be taken before responding to any council request.
The tone from councils has shifted.
The tools have changed.
The risk profile has increased.
This New Year starts with enforcement, not warnings.
Preparation now prevents penalties later.
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