Enhanced council powers take effect on 27 December 2025: A Guide for London Landlords

Much of the property sector is focused on the major reforms due to take effect on 1 May 2026 due to the Renters Rights Act including the move away from fixed-term tenancies, changes to rent review mechanisms and the abolition of section 21. However, the expansion of local authority enforcement powers, coming into effect earlier, is equally important.

From 27^th December 2025, councils will be able to:

• request tenancy documents and supporting evidence
• review compliance activity from the previous 12 months
• escalate cases where gaps or inconsistencies are identified

This early enforcement phase is intended to ensure landlords are fully compliant well before the wider reforms reshape the tenancy framework.

Landlords could be hit with civil penalties of up to £7,000 for a standard breach of the rules or first offence.

For a serious or repeat offence, the fine could be up to £40,000 per offence.

 

Greater accountability for self-managing landlords

Landlords who self-manage part or all of their portfolio should expect increased scrutiny.

Councils may request access to:

• tenancy agreements and prescribed information
• deposit protection records
• Right to Rent documentation
• gas safety certificates and EICRs
• EPCs
• repair and inspection records
• licensing documentation
• legal notices and correspondence

All records must be accurate, up to date and readily available. Any omissions or errors will sit entirely with the Landlord.

 

Why tenancy and property administration now matters more than ever

The legislation itself has not changed. What has changed is how actively it will be enforced.

Councils will have a lower threshold for investigation, faster response times and a clear expectation of traceable, well-organised evidence.

A single missing certificate or unclear audit trail can delay matters, prompt further enquiries or increase exposure unnecessarily.

We are aware Brent Council, Harrow Council and Westminster have recruited a larger team to deal with this enforcement.

 

The accessibility test: how quickly can you produce your records?

Even diligent landlords can struggle if documents are spread across emails, devices, cloud storage or paper files. In a regulatory environment where response times matter, poor organisation becomes a risk.

Being able to present a complete, structured tenancy file at short notice will be a key indicator of compliance.

 

Avoiding a year-end compliance bottleneck

The final weeks of the year already bring added pressure, from renewals and financial reporting to holiday-related scheduling challenges. Introducing council investigations into the mix without a consolidated compliance system can place significant strain on landlords.

Taking a proactive approach now can help avoid last-minute document searches and unnecessary stress in December.

 

How Regal Estates supports landlords through the December changes

As councils prepare to use their expanded powers, landlords should ensure they have a reliable compliance and documentation process in place. For those who self-manage any part of their portfolio, Regal Estates offers a very practical alternative.

When all properties are placed under our full property management services, we will:

• maintain complete, up-to-date tenancy records
• oversee all statutory checks, certifications and renewals
• manage deposit protection and associated legal requirements
• provide structured support in the event of a council request
• help ensure your portfolio remains compliant and protected

In an environment of increased scrutiny, this level of oversight provides both reassurance and efficiency for Landlords.

We have nearly three decades of experience assisting Landlords in Northwest and throughout London with their property compliance matters.

Call us on 020 8459 2530 if you would like assistance with your property investment in North West London.