Respect Orders came into force in England and Wales on 26 October 2026, giving courts new powers to tackle antisocial behaviour by adults aged 18 or over.
A court can impose restrictions, such as keeping someone away from a particular area, and require steps such as alcohol treatment. Breaching an order without a reasonable excuse can be a criminal offence.
Who can apply?
Applications are restricted to authorities named in the legislation, including councils, police and specified housing providers. That definition includes qualifying social landlords and housing trusts; simply owning a privately rented property does not give a landlord the right to apply.
Reporting a problem
If you or your tenants face threatening behaviour or suspected crime, report it to the police online or on 101. Call 999 if someone is in immediate danger or a crime is in progress. Report noise nuisance through your council’s website.
Keep a record of what happened, where and when, whether it has happened before and its effect on those involved. These details can help the authority assess the report.
Sources
- Home Office: Respect Orders launch, 26 October 2026.
- Crime and Policing Act 2026, section 1: powers, eligible applicants and commencement.
- GOV.UK reporting guidance: police, council and information to include, checked 27 October 2026.
