A council claims it’s conducted 700 private rental inspections, issued 240 improvement notices and identified 1,000 individual property hazards.

Yet it’s still applying for government consent to introduce an Article 4 Direction giving it more power over HMOs.

That’s happening at Telford council which is next week considering a report showing how its current enforcement policies have resulted in prosecutions with fines totalling around £60,000, plus additional civil penalties, property charges and repayment orders totalling £66,000.

A spokesperson says: “Our approach is based on support, engagement and enforcement. 

“We work with landlords and tenants to resolve issues early, provide practical advice and guidance, and help people access safe and decent homes.

“Where landlords are willing to engage, we will support them to improve standards. 

“But where people fail to meet their legal responsibilities or put tenants at risk, we will not hesitate to take enforcement action.”

And the spokesperson adds that the Article 4 Direction “will improve visibility of new HMOs and provide greater opportunities to manage [HMOs] impact on local communities.”