Housing enforcement guidance

In relation to housing offences a banning order can only be applied for following a conviction in the courts.

Whenever the authority believes a Housing Act 2004 offence has been committed and the evidence passes the evidential stage and the public interest stage it will then be necessary to consider on a case by case basis if instigating prosecution proceedings or imposing a civil penalty is the best approach.

Factors to consider will be:

• the seriousness of the offence, history of compliance, culpability and the harm caused

• whether a civil penalty is likely to be sufficient to change the behaviour of the offender, if not then a banning order should be considered

• whether the offender has a large portfolio of properties potentially putting many tenants at risk if they continue to operate with poor practices

• information from partner agencies i.e. Staffordshire Police and Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service

• is publicity likely to act as a deterrent to others, a prosecution is in the public domain whereas a civil penalty isn't

• which option will be the best deterrent to prevent further offences

• whether there is a desire to apply for a 12 month rent repayment order which, following a valid application, the tribunal must order following a conviction of a rent repayment order offence

• whether the tenant or council is also considering applying for a rent repayment order