Issue - meetings

(Relevant Portfolio Holder: Councillor G Dowling)

Councillor Gareth Dowling introduced the report of the Corporate Director of Place & Community, which sought approval of the Private Rented Sector Electrical Safety Policy 2021.

The minute of Executive Overview & Scrutiny Committee held on 21 October 2021 was circulated prior to the meeting.

In reaching the decision below, Cabinet considered the details set out in the report before it and the reasons contained therein.

RESOLVED:   A.      That the Private Rented Sector Electrical Safety Policy 2021, attached at Appendix 1 to the report, be approved.

                          B.      That the minute of Executive Overview & Scrutiny be noted.

                          C.      That the Corporate Director of Place & Community, in consultation with the relevant Portfolio Holder, be authorised to amend the policy considering any legislative or guidance changes.

                          D.      That the Corporate Director of Place & Community, in consultation with the relevant Portfolio Holder, be authorised to review and change the level of financial penalties issued as required.

                          E.      That the Corporate Director of Place & Community, in consultation with the relevant Portfolio Holder, be authorised to amend the current Private Sector Housing Enforcement Policy, originally approved by Cabinet, to include the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020.

To consider the report of the Corporate Director of Place & Community.

Consideration was given to the report of the Corporate Director of Place and Community as contained on pages 345 to 364 of the Book of Reports which was to consider and agree the Private Rented Sector Electrical Safety Policy 2021.

The Homelessness and Private Sector Housing Manager outlined the report, detailing the introduction of the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 which came into force on 1 June 2020, and as of 1 April 2021 apply to all private rented tenancies and licences to occupy.  The purpose of the Regulations is to improve safety in all residential premises, particularly the private rented sector. 

She informed Members that in respect of the 'financial and resource implications' as set out at paragraphs 11.1 and 11.2 of the report, which detailed that a further FTE equivalent post would be required to ensure the Council can meet its legal obligations, was no longer required due to a recent staff restructure.

In discussion, the following comments and questions were raised:

·         It was suggested that it be specified that electrical installations are 'signed off' by a qualified and competent person according to British Standard Regulations)

·         Communication of the Private Rented Sector Electrical Safety Policy 2021

·         Legal Challenges / fair warning

·         Members welcomed the introduction of the Policy

RESOLVED: That the Private Rented Sector Electrical Safety Policy 2021 attached at Appendix 1 to the report be presented to Cabinet for approval.

(Note: Councillor I Rigby left the Chamber for the duration of this item)