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English councils receive extra funding for Renters’ Rights enforcement

Flat illustration of a UK rental street with a council document and house fronts in a muted editorial style

News from 14 April 2026

Read the current guide to tenancy rules in England.

The government announced more than £41 million in additional funding for English councils ahead of the 1 May 2026 tenancy reforms. Combined with earlier funding, the package totalled £60 million.

What the announcement says

According to the GOV.UK announcement, all 317 local authorities in England will receive funding to help them carry out new duties tied to the Renters’ Rights Act from 1 May. The package is aimed at helping councils enforce the incoming ban on Section 21 no-fault evictions, police the new rules on rental bidding wars and discrimination, and use stronger civil penalties against landlords who break the law.

The announcement also says that the maximum fine for serious or repeated breaches will rise to £40,000, up from £30,000. Rent Repayment Orders are also set to become heavier, with the potential for claims to reach up to two years of rent rather than one. The funding is intended to help councils put the new powers into practice.

Sources

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