Articles by Samantha Watkin

Local authorities and enforcement: an inconsistent, uneven patchwork

This report is the latest stage of the NRLA's investigation into the enforcement of housing standards in the PRS. The report - based on Freedom of Information requests - ranks the service levels landlords can expect from over 275 English local authorities. The report finds landlords face variable levels of service. The service offered by many local authorities is letting down the PRS.

Special Report Samantha Watkin 17/04/2023
Local authorities and enforcement: an inconsistent, uneven patchwork

Council going back to the drawing board over unlawful licensing consultation

Greenwich Council is re-launching its consultation on additional licensing plans following complaints from the NRLA. Policy officer Samantha Watkin explains more.

Industry News Samantha Watkin 27/01/2023
Council going back to the drawing board over unlawful licensing consultation

Landlords asked for feedback on pet damage in new survey

Landlords and letting agents are being asked to provide feedback on the true cost of damages on rental accommodation by pets.

Industry News Samantha Watkin 05/04/2022
Landlords asked for feedback on pet damage in new survey

NRLA responds to Birmingham's plans to introduce selective licensing

The NRLA has responded to Birmingham City Council's consultation on plans to introduce a selective licensing scheme in the city, by raising concerns about both the council's lack of evidence to show previous enforcement activity and the variation fee.

Regional News Samantha Watkin 21/01/2022
NRLA responds to Birmingham's plans to introduce selective licensing

The enforcement lottery: criminal prosecutions and local authorities

Following on from previous research into civil penalty usage by local authorities, the NRLA looks at criminal prosecution rates across the local authorities in England.

Special Report Samantha Watkin 10/11/2021
The enforcement lottery: criminal prosecutions and local authorities