Knowsley’s Cabinet has endorsed a measure aimed at ensuring standards within the private housing sector are maintained.
The Private Sector Housing Enforcement Policy supports the Private Sector Housing and Affordable Warmth Strategy 2019-2024, which was endorsed by Cabinet in March 2019.
The Private Sector Housing Enforcement Policy has been implemented with the aim of underpinning and strengthening the Council’s ability to take more proactive and effective enforcement within the private housing sector.
The Policy sets out a broad overview of the principles and processes used by the Council to deal with breaches of housing law and other public health legislation.
The aim is to ensure that that health and housing standards are protected.
The Policy will provide Council officers with the appropriate powers of intervention as required, including Civil Penalty Notices and Compulsory Purchase Orders.
This includes where there is a risk to residential occupiers.
Cllr Shelley Powell, Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods, said: “Private housing plays a significant part in the housing provision within Knowsley and while the majority of this type of tenure is in good condition and well-managed it is vital there are safeguards in place for tenants, particularly those on low incomes whose options are limited. The tragic and avoidable death of two-year old Awaab Ishak in Rochdale due to the effects of untreated mould in his home highlights the importance of maintaining good standards of housing for everyone.”
An extensive consultation exercise has been carried out to seek the views of various stakeholders on the Policy, which will be implemented with immediate effect following Cabinet’s approval.