Birmingham is grappling with a significant housing issue as nearly 7,500 complaints have been filed against landlords over the past five years. The issues include housing disrepair, harassment, and attempted unlawful evictions. Despite the surge in complaints, Birmingham City Council has not prosecuted a single landlord since 2018.
New data reveals complaints rose by 103% in the last financial year alone. Across England and Wales, over 100 councils also failed to prosecute landlords during the same period. Experts attribute this to limited resources, with Tom Darling of the Renters' Reform Coalition emphasizing the urgent need for government funding to support councils in enforcing the upcoming Renters' Rights Bill.
Birmingham City Council’s Private Rented Service team handled over 7,400 complaints, primarily resolving them through informal discussions with landlords. Councillor Jayne Francis, the cabinet member for housing and homelessness, highlighted that while formal actions, such as Civil Penalty Notices, have been taken in some cases, most issues are resolved without resorting to legal measures.
However, critics argue that a lack of enforcement leaves tenants feeling unprotected. Beverley Faulkner, a legal expert, stressed that tenants have the right to seek justice through civil claims if landlord negligence causes harm, such as illnesses linked to poor housing conditions.
Public Interest Lawyers reported that 438,523 complaints were lodged across 252 councils in five years, with Birmingham ranking tenth in complaint volume. The Renters’ Reform Coalition is lobbying for stronger legislation to protect renters and address the systemic issues in the private rental sector.
Meanwhile, Birmingham City Council is reviewing the proposed Renters' Rights Bill and contributing to national discussions to improve tenant protections.