Lincolnshire Landlord Electronic Newsletters - LLEN

Damp & Mould Action and Awareness Week returns this October

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 11:59:00 GMT

Damp and mould produces allergens, irritants, mould spores and other toxins that are harmful to health. It is estimated that over seven million households in the UK are affected by damp and mould (gov.uk, 2024).

The NHS spends an estimated £1.4 billion a year on treating illnesses associated with living in cold or damp housing.

This second action and awareness week takes place between 28 October and 3 November, and aims to bring together all partners to work together and share resources to reduce the effects.

There is an added urgency to this years campaign as Awaab’s Law comes into effect. Presently this requires social landlords to fix reported health hazards like damp and mould within strict legal timeframes, but it is expected to be rolled out to include all landlords.

The law, named after two-year-old Awaab Ishak, who died from prolonged exposure to mould in his home, aims to ensure tenants can hold landlords accountable through the courts if their homes remain unsafe.

Landlords should start looking now for resources which will enable them to cope. AICO have had a leading role in promoting the awareness week. For landlord guides and resources visit their website at www.aico.co.uk/damp-mould-action-and-awareness-week.

In support of the campaign week DASH has a couple of dedicated training courses relating to damp and mould which will help landlords and agents keep on top of the issue. DASH E-Learning Portal.

DASH Damp and Mould Course 1

This three-hour CPD course provides practical guidance on understanding moisture dynamics, ventilation, and how to communicate effectively with tenants about damp and mould issues. It's particularly useful for officers dealing with tenant-reported hazards and offers language and knowledge that aligns with HHSRS assessments.

DASH Damp and Mould Course 2

A follow-up to Course 1, this advanced module explores the science behind damp and mould, including causes and effective remedial strategies. Developed with input from the UK Centre for Moisture in Buildings and RHE Global, it’s ideal for regulatory teams dealing with complex or recurring mould-related complaints and inspections.

Frequently asked Questions:

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 11:58:00 GMT

When will Section 21 be abolished?

There is currently no confirmed date for the abolition of Section 21.

It will depend on how quickly the Renters’ Rights Bill progresses through Parliament, but many housing experts expect it could happen in early 2026.

This is an entirely new piece of legislation and so must go through the full parliamentary process.

It is essential that landlords keep up to date with the progress of the bill, if you are not already part of a landlord accreditation scheme, landlord association or in touch with a trusted source you are urged to do so ASAP.

Can landlords still use a Section 21 notice in 2025?

Landlords can still serve a Section 21 notice to end a tenancy at the moment, as the Renters’ Rights Bill has not yet become law but once the act has commenced Landlords will not be able to issue new Section 21s.

However, for your Section 21 notice to be valid, it’s important to ensure you’ve met all your legal obligations. This includes things like protecting your tenant’s deposit in a government-approved scheme and providing them with a gas safety certificate, among other requirements.

Upcoming Events

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 11:57:00 GMT

DASH’s East Midlands Housing Conference 2025

Friday 21st November 2025 | 9am–4pm

Free event (now full – but please do join the waiting list on Eventbrite: East Midlands 2025 Housing Conference Tickets, Fri 21 Nov 2025 at 09:00 | Eventbrite

If you’ve booked but can no longer attend, please let us know.

South Kesteven landlord Forum

Landlords are invited to a FREE forum & training event on

Friday 7^th November 2025

at the Guild Hall, Grantham, near South Kesteven District Council Offices.

From 9.30am to 12.30pm

Reserve your place now by using the Eventbrite Landlord Forum and Training Event Tickets, Fri 7 Nov 2025 at 09:30 | Eventbrite as there are limited places.

Renters’ Rights Bill Forum – Boston

Wednesday 21st January 2026 | 12:00–2:30pm

Venue: Boston United Football Stadium (Jakemans Community Stadium)

Free to attend:

Renters’ Rights Bill – Key Changes at a Glance & free training opportunities

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 11:56:26 GMT

The Labour government’s Renters’ Rights Bill marks the most significant shake-up to the private rented sector since the Housing Act 1988.
These reforms will reshape how landlords manage properties and how tenants rent them. Here’s what’s coming:

Section 21 ‘No Fault’ Evictions to Be Abolished

Section 21 notice which landlords can use to end tenancies without giving a reason will be scrapped.
Landlords will instead use updated Section 8 grounds to regain possession, with new options (e.g. selling a property).

End of Fixed-Term Tenancies

Assured shorthold tenancies (ASTs) will be replaced by periodic tenancies from the commencement date (which will be confirmed shortly after the bill gets Royal Assent)
All tenancies will become monthly and open-ended.
Tenants will now give two months’ notice if they wish to leave.

Rent Increases – One Per Year

Rent can only rise once a year via the Section 13 process.
Rent review clauses in existing agreements will no longer apply.
Landlords must give two months’ notice of any increase, and tenants can challenge it at the First-tier Tribunal free of charge.

More Rights for Tenants with Pets

Landlords must respond to pet requests within 28 days and can’t unreasonably refuse.
If declined unfairly, tenants can escalate or take legal action.

A New Private Rented Sector Ombudsman

All private landlords will have to join the new Landlord Redress Scheme (PRS Ombudsman).
It will handle complaints from tenants, with powers to require apologies, corrective action, or compensation.
Non-compliance could lead to banning orders for repeat offenders.

A Digital Property Portal

A new government portal will require landlords to register themselves and their properties.
It will act as a central record of compliance and support local authorities in targeting enforcement effectively.

Learn More with DASH Services

Renters’ Rights Bill: A Guide for Landlords & Agents (Part 1 & 2)

DASH have put together a FREE two-part course for landlords and agents covering everything from tenancy reform and rent rules to enforcement powers, Awaab’s Law, and the Decent Homes Standard update.
Available now via the DASH E-learning Portal

Right to Rent Guidance Updated (Feb '25)

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 19:25:55 GMT

This month (february) the Home Office has published updated Right to Rent guidance for landlords & letting agents.

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/landlords-guide-to-right-to-rent-checks

The updates include:

consolidating the guidance by streamlining the content within the section titled ‘Previous versions of this guidance’.

the decommissioning of biometric cards, including Biometric Residence Permits/Card (BRP/BRC) confirming that individuals who currently use a physical immigration document, such as a BRP/BRC, or legacy paper document, should take action to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa to prove their right to rent in the UK.

Annex A: List of acceptable documents for a manual right to rent check to confirm that a clipped British or Irish passport is a cancelled document and therefore not acceptable proof of right to rent. Also, clarification that a short or long birth certificate is considered acceptable when presented with official evidence of name and national insurance number.

updates to Annex C: Ukrainian nationals and right to rent, to confirm the opening of the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme on 4 February 2025.

the removal of the section referring to COVID-19 temporary adjusted checks.

further information added on Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETAs) and how non visa nationals can prove their right to rent.

Raising the minimum EPC rating by 2030: Have your say

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 19:00:06 GMT

Government is proposing to raise the minimum energy efficiency standard required of privately rented homes in England and Wales to the equivalent of Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) C by 2030.

The proposed policy aims to deliver significant energy bill and carbon emissions savings in the sector to deliver against government’s statutory 2030 fuel poverty target and carbon budgets.

This consultation follows on from a consultation in 2020, with updated proposals to account for new and relevant considerations, including proposed reforms to EPCs.

Visit the .gov webiste for further information and learn how you can have your say - Improving the energy performance of privately rented homes: 2025 update - GOV.UK

or visit here to see what others are saying: Warm homes and cheaper bills as government accelerates Plan for Change - GOV.UK

DASH online landlord Forum session - 23.01.25

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 13:13:00 GMT

Thursday, 23rd January 2025

12:00 PM to 1:00 PM

via Microsoft Teams.

Featuring Becky Scott from Pepperell’s Solicitors & Don Robbie Housing Consultant, the session will cover:

A very quick update on the Renters Rights Bill - where we are currently at now!
Expert guidance on repossessing properties, with tips on navigating the court process and efficient property recovery.
Open-floor Q&A via the chat facility.

To book your place email jack.taylor@derby.gov.uk quoting - DASH online landlord Forum session - 23.01.25

EPC consultation - open until 26 February 2025

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 12:57:00 GMT

As you may be aware there has been a lot of talk over the past few years of upgrading the minimum standards of EPC rating for let properties.

The Government has confirmed that rented properties will require an EPC C rating for rented properties by 2030.

There is a consultation open now for the new proposals for EPC’s, which is open until 26 February. Reforms to the Energy Performance of Buildings regime - GOV.UK

Ministers want to change the method by which energy efficiency is calculated to focus more on carbon emissions, with a more in-depth assessment to give a more accurate picture of energy efficiency.

Currently, EPCs are valid for 10 years but the consultation proposes reducing this to improve the accuracy and timeliness of energy performance information for properties. They are proposing to increase the frequency of inspections, which could be required as often as every two years.

The Government plans to insist private rented properties always have a valid EPC, rather than solely at the point of marketing and entering a new tenancy. Under the current rules a landlord is not required to replace an EPC if the same tenancy continues after the EPC expires.

The consultation also includes plans to expand EPC requirements to all houses in multiple occupation (HMOs), holiday lets, and listed buildings, whereas at present an EPC is only required for HMOs where the property is let on a joint tenancy. 

How to respond

You may respond by completing an online survey on Citizen Space.

Using the online survey greatly assists the analysis of the responses, enabling more efficient and effective consideration of the issues raised.

If it is not possible for you to use the online survey, you can respond through email. If you are responding in this way, please make it clear which questions you are responding to.

Email responses should be sent to: energyperformanceofbuildingsregulations@communities.gov.uk

Let's Talk Rubbish Event

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 13:54:00 GMT

Come and Join Boston Borough Council on:

Wednesday 6th November 2024

to talk all things recycling, waste management and answers your private rented questions over rubbish

Right to Rent Guidance Update 23.09.24

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 14:52:43 GMT

Updated guidance for landlords (letting agents) has been published.

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/landlords-guide-to-right-to-rent-checks

Updates include:

Clarification within List A Group 1: Definition in footnote 1 includes that ILR endorsements in a current passport from a Crown Dependency are acceptable proof of right to rent.
Updates to Annex C: Ukrainian nationals and right to rent, including advising of schemes which are now closed, and changes made to the Homes for Ukraine scheme which means some visa holders, who applied to the scheme after 19 February 2024, will have 18 months permission to remain in the UK

We are looking to communicate this message to stakeholders and would appreciate your support to help us spread the word through your relevant channels and networks.

Should you require any further information please do not hesitate to contact Home Office: RighttoRentandRighttoWork@homeoffice.gov.uk?

23 September 2024

Boston Borough Council Face to Face landlord Forum - 4th June

Thu, 30 May 2024 12:22:00 GMT

Boston Borough Council, DASH Landlord Accreditation and the NRLA will be hosting an in-person Landlord & Agent forum on 4th June @ 1pm.

The forum will cover: (#subject2Change)

Legislative Update

Renters (Reform) Bill Update
Update on HHSRS & Decent Homes Standard

Local update, opportunities & projects
Housing Benefits Update
Question & Answer session

If you have any questions, you would like us to cover, please feel free to email us ahead of the session and we can try and include those on the day however we usually ensure there is plenty of time for Q&A so don’t worry if you don’t get chance to email.

TUESDAY 4TH JUNE 2024.

1.00pm – 3.30pm

Venue: Council Chambers at Boston Borough Council, Municipal Buildings, West Street, Boston, PE21 8QR

Cost: FREE

To book a place please email dash@derby.gov.uk (quote:Boston forum)

Lincolnshire Landlord online information session - 25th June

Thu, 30 May 2024 12:17:00 GMT

We are hosting a Lincolnshire online information session alongside Local Authority officers in Lincolnshire on:

Tuesday 25^th June 2024

10.30am – 12noon

Venue: Via Microsoft TEAMS

Cost: FREE

The online session will have 1 large group to open the event where DASH & the NRLA will cover the legislative update and give an overview of the PRS landscape then we will break off into break out rooms

In each break out room will there will be Local Authority staff there from:

North Kesteven
South Kesteven
East Lindsey
West Lindsey
Boston
South Holland
North Lincolnshire
Lincoln City

to answer any of your questions and give a more local update.

To book a place please email dash@derby.gov.uk (quote:LincsOnline)

Court hearing upholds penalties for HMO breaches in Boston

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 16:29:26 GMT

Posted on 8th April 2024 - Successful court hearing upholds penalties for HMO breaches - Boston Borough Council

In a recent tribunal court hearing, Mr. Nigel William Harry Hobbs and Mr. James Robert Hobbs faced financial civil penalties imposed by Boston Borough Council regarding properties at 123 and 125 Norfolk Street, Boston. The case focused on violations of the Housing Act 2004 and the Management of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) Regulations 2006.

The penalties imposed on Mr. James Robert Hobbs for managing a HMO in breach of regulations amounted to £5,750, while Mr. Nigel William Harry Hobbs faced similar charges with penalties totalling £5,750. Additionally, Mr. Nigel William Harry Hobbs incurred a financial penalty of £10,000 for operating a HMO that required a mandatory licence without having one and £1,500 for breaching Management of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) Regulations 2006.

The appeals against the financial penalties relating to 125 Norfolk Street, Boston, centered on whether the property was intended to be run as a HMO. Both Appellants argued that the property's classification as a HMO was due to the actions of a tenant and that the regulations were not breached.

The court upheld the penalties, highlighting the seriousness of non-compliance with HMOs and their respective management regulations. The ruling underscores the importance of maintaining standards in property management and ensuring the safety and well-being of tenants.

Cllr John Baxter, Portfolio Holder for Housing at Boston Borough Council, said: "We welcome the court's decision to uphold the penalties for violations of HMO and management regulations. These regulations are in place to ensure the safety and well-being of tenants and to maintain standards in property management.

"It is crucial for landlords and property owners to adhere to these rules to protect the interests of residents and the community as a whole. We urge all individuals involved in property management to prioritise compliance with regulations to create safe and healthy living environments for everyone."

Damp + Mould. New government guidance.

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 15:21:11 GMT

This guidance emphasises the importance of safe, warm, and dry living conditions for all residents in the UK. As landlords, it's up to us to provide accommodations that are not only comfortable but also free from serious hazards, including the presence of damp and mould.

The guidance underscores the significance of promptly addressing cases of damp and mould. Ensuring the health and well-being of our tenants should always be our top priority.

We welcome and encourage all landlords to take the time to review the government's guidance thoroughly and implement any necessary measures to ensure your rental properties meet these essential health and safety standards.

By staying informed and taking proactive steps, we can collectively contribute to healthier and happier living environments for our tenants, while also complying with our legal obligations as landlords.

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/damp-and-mould-understanding-and-addressing-the-health-risks-for-rented-housing-providers/understanding-and-addressing-the-health-risks-of-damp-and-mould-in-the-home--2

NRLA & DASH joint Landlord meeting

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 15:06:02 GMT

Monday 11 December, 6pm – 8.45pm

Join us for our next in-person landlord meeting in Lincoln hosted jointly by the NRLA and DASH to get the latest on News and Legislation for Private Landlords and Letting Agents plus an opportunity to network and catch up - this time back at the previous venue at Holiday Inn Express on Ruston Way.

An invitation for Lincolnshire Landlords & Letting Agents to join us for a briefing on Local & National News and Legislation for Private Landlords. Tea/coffee will be available as usual from 6.00pm with the meeting starting at 6.30pm

Holiday Inn Express
Brayford Enterprise Park, Ruston Way
LN6 7DB

6.00 pm - registration , tea or coffee & networking

6.30pm - Meeting starts

Welcome from Don Robbie NRLA Local Representative and Sarah Swingler from DASH

Optimising your EPC score and minimising tenant fuel bills plus the latest on local energy saving grant funding arrangements - Don Robbie

Guest Speaker - to be finalised shortly!

DASH Accreditation and Training Update - Sarah Swingler

Question & Answer Session with all presenters

Use the link to Register and attend the meeting https://www.nrla.org.uk/events/meetings/5952

Government announces changes to Renters Reform plans

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 12:46:33 GMT

Here is the Government response to a report by the Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Committee on Reforming the Private Rented Sector published on 20^th Oct 2023 Reforming the Private Rented Sector: Government’s response to the Committee’s Fifth Report of Session 2022-23 - Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Committee (parliament.uk)

The highlight of that report is that the Government have responded by

Scrapping proposals to require landlords to meet EPC C from 2025 in their private rented properties: As announced by the Prime Minister in September, they will not be taking forward proposals to force private landlords or homeowners to upgrade homes to EPC C. Landlords can still take advantage of the many government-backed schemes available to improve energy efficiency but at a time that suits them.
Speeding up the courts process so landlords can quickly regain possession of their property if a tenant refuses to move out. They will align the abolition of section 21 and new possession grounds with court improvements, including end-to-end digitisation of the process. They will continue their work with the judiciary to explore the prioritisation of certain cases, including anti-social behaviour.
Protecting the student market. They recognise that the student market is cyclical and that landlords must be able to guarantee possession each year for a new set of tenants, and so will introduce a new ground for possession to facilitate this.

DASH will be hosting an online information on Thursday 23^rd November 2023 (10.30am – 11.30am) to unpack all of the Government’s responses to the Select Committee recommendations – To book a place please email jack.taylor@derby.gov.uk

South Kesteven District Council Housing Strategy Consultation Survey

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 11:38:18 GMT

South Kesteven District Council are developing a new housing strategy

They really welcome landlords with property in the area to complete a questionnaire to help them in developing it.

The survey can be completed by using following the link

https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/SKHSB2023

The survey closes on 31^st October 2023.

View the Survey Monkey Privacy Notice | SurveyMonkey

View South Kesteven District Council Privacy notice (southkesteven.gov.uk)

New ‘How to Rent’ guide has been published today 2nd Oct '23

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 16:16:00 GMT

A new ‘How to Rent’ guide has been published by the Government today (2nd Oct 2023).

Landlords in England must serve the latest version of this guide to their tenancy at the start of any new tenancy or renewal (when a statutory periodic tenancy).

The lastest version has been updated with advice on how to access free legal aid services and support, regardless of financial circumstances.

It contains information on the Housing Loss Prevention Advice Service, replacing the Housing Possession Court Duty Schemes (HCPDS), which provides legal advice to tenants at risk of eviction

The gudie can be accessed from Gov.uk - How to rent - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Lincolnshire 'Fire home safety toolkit'

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 15:10:12 GMT

Have you seen the new online home fire safety check for Lincolnshire?

The easy-to-follow home fire safety check has been developed through a partnership between the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), Fire Kills and Safelincs.

It takes you through your home one room at a time and the simple questions will help you spot fire risks as you go around your home.

The tool will offer tips and advice on the steps you can take to reduce those risks. At the end, you will receive a personalised fire safety action plan to help keep you and your household safe from fire.

Why not try for your own home, share with your existing tenants or incorporate into your property check ins?

HFSC (safelincs.co.uk)

Boston HMO Landlord fined

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 15:04:00 GMT

A landlord responsible for a Lincolnshire house in multiple occupation (HMO) has been fined thousands of pounds after myriad problems were found at the property. Jamal Parvez, who managed a HMO in Paddock Grove, Boston was handed a £5,000 fine after informal attempts at resolving the issue failed.

Boston Council support good landlords and offer free landlord accreditation, training & guidance to access click here: DASH Services - DASH Landlord Accreditation