Enforcement and Regulatory Policy for Private Sector Housing

1.1 Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council ('the Council') is committed to improving the housing conditions and management standards in privately rented and privately owned properties across the borough.

1.2 Although Stockton has some excellent landlords there are a number of criminal, rogue and irresponsible landlords who knowingly rent out accommodation that is unlicensed, substandard and/or unsafe.

1.3 The Council has statutory powers and duties to regulate private sector housing through enforcement of the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) and Licensing of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). Other relevant legislation also allows the Council to ensure that private sector homes are safe for residents and neighbourhoods and are of a reasonable standard.

1.4 Regulatory actions include:

• Carrying out inspections
• Dealing with license applications
• Service of notices and orders
• Carrying out work in default
• Prosecution
• Civil Penalties
• Rent Repayment Orders 

1.5 These duties are carried out by the Private Sector Housing team that forms part of the Housing Service within the wider Economic Growth and Development Services Directorate.