Burnley Council is updating its Civil Penalties Policy as part of its continued drive to improve housing conditions and raise property management standards across the borough.
The council’s Executive will be asked to approve the revised policy on 16th September, ensuring Burnley is ready for changes introduced through the Renters’ Rights Act 2025.
The new legislation gives councils additional powers to tackle poor housing and property management and increases the maximum financial penalty for serious offences from £30,000 to £40,000.
Under Burnley’s updated policy, penalties of up to £7,000 can be issued for certain breaches, rising to a maximum of £40,000 for more serious offences or repeat breaches.
The policy covers a range of issues that can affect the quality and management of rented homes, including serious property hazards, electrical safety, overcrowding and failures to comply with HMO and selective licensing requirements.
Councillor Howard Baker, Burnley Council’s portfolio holder for Housing and Planning, said:
“Improving the condition and management of housing across Burnley is an important priority for the council.
“The vast majority of landlords take their responsibilities seriously and provide good quality, well managed homes. This updated policy is about making sure we have the right tools to deal with the minority who don’t.
“Poorly maintained or badly managed properties don’t just affect the people living in them, they can have an impact on neighbouring properties, streets and whole communities.
“We want to work with responsible landlords to continue raising standards across Burnley, while being clear that we will take firm action where landlords fail to meet their responsibilities.
“Ultimately, this is about improving housing conditions, encouraging good property management and helping make Burnley’s neighbourhoods better places to live.”
“The council will use all appropriate tools to ensure the health and safety of residents and improve our property management standards.”
The revised policy provides a clear and consistent approach to civil penalties, with each case considered on its individual circumstances to ensure any action taken is fair and proportionate.
Post expires at 8:28am on Wednesday December 9th, 2026