Decision details

This report will set out a proposed policy for dealing with harassment and illegal eviction in private sector housing in line with the Protection from Eviction Act 1977.

This report set out the Private Sector Housing: Harassment and Illegal Eviction Policy. The policy stated how the Council would deal with reported incidences of harassment and illegal eviction, including the taking of legal proceedings against landlords when required. The draft policy was consulted with a number of stakeholders to which one response was received.

A Diversity Impact Assessment had been completed, as set out in appendix 2 to the report, and it was noted that it had not been necessary to carry out a full impact assessment.

Reasons:

An effective policy for dealing with harassment and illegal eviction will significantly add to the safety of tenants in Medway, deter landlords from taking such actions and consequently reduce applications for re-housing and homelessness.  By providing an improved policy framework for dealing with these issues, the Council can ensure that decisions regarding possible enforcement action are made in a consistent, fair, transparent manner and proportionate to any breaches in legislation.