A council in the area which will see the first landlord database roll out is pledging ‘firm and robust’ enforcement.

Telford & Wrekin council in the West Midlands says in a statement that it wants to “lead the way nationally” and promises to use “intelligence” from the database to help renters.

On the back of the Renters Rights Act, the council has unveiled a raft of measures clamping down on rogue landlords.

The statement says: “The council continues to work to tackle unscrupulous landlords whose practices impact the health, wellbeing and security of tenants and neighbourhoods.”

It claims that each year its housing team responds to around 600 requests for support and carries out 400 inspections. 

It suggests this has contributed to reductions in crime and anti-social behaviour as well as improved conditions for many vulnerable tenants.

And it adds: “The council also supports compliant landlords.”

The statement goes on to say: “From December, the West Midlands will become one of the first areas where landlords will be required to register their rented properties. 

“This will provide further intelligence to ensure stronger protection and greater confidence for renters.”

In addition it is introducing an Article 4 Direction from February 2027 which means planning permission will be required for all new Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs).

But the introduction of additional licensing for smaller HMOs has paused until next year after a legal challenge was raised by landlords.

Councillor Nathan England says: “Our ambition is to lead the way nationally in raising housing standards through our firm and robust approach. It is essential that we do the right thing by our residents.

“Whether that is improving standards in the private rented sector, supporting responsible landlords, bringing empty homes back into use or tackling poor housing conditions, our focus is always on creating safe, high-quality homes and stronger communities.

“The national landscape is changing with the introduction of the Renters Rights Act, and we welcome measures that help raise standards and improve protections for tenants.

“Locally, the introduction of Article 4 will give us greater oversight of new HMOs and help ensure growth is managed appropriately for the benefit of residents, landlords and communities.”