A senior Kirklees Council director has defended the new Renters’ Rights Act after councillors raised concerns that tougher regulations could drive private landlords out of the housing market.
The issue was discussed during a Growth and Regeneration Scrutiny Panel meeting on 20 July 2026, where councillors considered two new policies designed to help the council enforce the legislation.
The Renters’ Rights Act, introduced on 1 May 2026, represents the biggest overhaul of the private rented sector in decades and includes the abolition of Section 21 “no-fault” evictions.
The policies discussed by councillors set out how the council will support landlords in meeting legal standards and how penalties will be issued when landlords breach housing laws or fail to treat tenants fairly.
During the meeting, Reform UK cllr Michael Simmons, who disclosed that he is a private landlord, questioned how landlords would be protected when problems within properties were caused by tenants.
He cited examples such as tenants failing to use ventilation systems or pets causing damage to wiring and fixtures, leading properties to fall below required standards.
In response, Kirklees Council’s Director for Place, David Shepherd, said landlords must continue to take responsibility for ensuring homes are safe and habitable.
Referring to Awaab’s Law, introduced following the death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak after prolonged exposure to mould, Mr Shepherd said the legislation was intended to prevent similar tragedies.
He told councillors: “What we have seen far too often is that landlords in the past have not taken appropriate responsibility.
“This is what we are trying to ensure isn’t an issue felt by any household in Kirklees.”
Other councillors expressed concerns that the council’s approach could discourage responsible landlords from remaining in the sector.
Councillor Khuram Amjad warned that some landlords could “jump ship” if they felt they were being targeted, potentially reducing the supply of private rented homes.
He said the council should work closely with responsible landlords to avoid a drop in rental properties that could place additional pressure on local housing services.
However, Head of Housing Services Sarah Holmes said an impact assessment had been carried out and found no evidence that the new policies would significantly reduce landlord numbers in Kirklees.
She added that the reforms were being introduced nationally, creating a consistent framework for landlords operating across multiple local authority areas.
