A Green Party controlled council is proposing adding 20% to fines for breaches of rules committed by landlords accommodating asylum seekers and other so-called vulnerable tenants.

The Daily Telegraph reports that Bristol city council wants to create a two-tier penalty system which would issue bigger fines for rule-breaking landlords housing “vulnerable” tenants.

The local authority says a broad definition of vulnerability would be used, to include young adults and children, people with drug or alcohol addiction, those whose first language is not English, asylum seekers and those on a low income. 

And it says this list is “non-exhaustive”.

Bristol’s pioneering two-tier penalty suggestion may be followed by other councils, it is claimed.

Paul Rooke, a partner at legal firm Mayo Wynne Baxter, says: “As the Renters Rights Act gives every local authority the power to set its own penalty framework, it is likely that more councils will follow Bristol’s approach.”

He says the key advice for landlords is to be vigilant.

Rooke continues: “It is vital to ensure that all compliance documentation, especially electrical safety records and licensing certificates, is consistently maintained and readily accessible. 

“Failure to supply these on demand is a trigger for enforcement action.

“In addition, landlords should understand the types of aggravating factors councils may consider.

“Although each authority can set its own policy, Bristol’s approach indicates that higher penalties may apply when breaches affect tenants considered vulnerable.

“This can include young adults, those with addiction issues, people whose first language is not English, asylum seekers, and low‑income renters.”

Rooke warns that these factors can increase fines because councils view them as heightening the potential harm of non‑compliance.

As a result, landlords should monitor rent thresholds closely.

He concludes: “Bristol is exploring higher penalties for landlords charging above Local Housing Allowance levels, meaning pricing decisions can directly influence regulatory risk.

“Overall, landlords should expect more scrutiny, more local divergence in enforcement and a more interventionist regulatory approach.”