Pendle News Room

And at December’s Full Council meeting, councillors agreed to implement new enforcement powers for landlords of private rented housing.

Pendle Council can now impose civil penalties of up to £30,000 if a landlord does not fulfil their duty in keeping tenants safe.

Councillor Nadeem Ahmed, Leader of Pendle Council said:
“There are around 7,000 privately rented homes in Pendle and tenants must have the right protection.

“The new powers mean that our Environmental Health Team can take action on any landlord who is not complying with national safety standards,” he explained.

Sarah Whitwell, Residential Team Leader in Environmental Health said:

“There are many good landlords and high quality rented homes in Pendle.

“But homes can have a range of electrical hazards.

“These can seriously affect a tenant’s health and safety and can even present a threat to life,” she warned.

“That’s why every electrical installation must be inspected and tested at least every five years by a qualified person," she said.

And tenants can ask to see a copy of the latest electrical safety report on their home, including prospective tenants.

Any tenants with concerns over electrical safety can call the Environmental Health Team on 01282 661008 or email housing.standards@pendle.gov.uk  or visit our website:
www.pendle.gov.uk/electricalsafety

As part of the new enforcement responsibilities, Pendle Council can serve urgent remedial notices on landlords.

With tenants’ permission, the Council can arrange to carry out important work relating to electrical safety if the landlord does not do it - and re-charge the landlord.

Sarah Whitwell added:  “The civil penalties agreed for Pendle have been developed in consultation with other East Lancashire local authorities.

“They are designed to be fair and graduated across six bands from band one with penalties up to £4,999 and band six  with penalties from £25,000 - £30,000 for the most serious safety breaches.

Landlords have 21 days to appeal against any notices served under the new regulations and also have the right to appeal to the tribunal.