Council inspection and improvement notices

Council inspection and improvement notices

1. 1

   Inspection

   After a complaint or a licensing visit, the council assesses hazards such as damp and mould, cold, fire and falls.

2. 2

   Category 1 hazard found?

   YesThe council must act — usually an improvement notice.

   Category 2 onlyThe council may act.
3. 3

   Improvement notice

   It lists the work and deadlines. Talk to the council early if you need more time.

4. 4

   Do you disagree?

   YesAppeal to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) within 21 days of the notice.

   NoDo the work and tell the council when it's done.
5. !

   If you don't comply

   An offence — civil penalties up to £40,000, prosecution, rent repayment orders, and the council can do the work and charge you.

6. ✓

   Keep records

   Photos, invoices and correspondence show what you did and when.

Checked against official sources on 10 November 2026 · General information, not legal advice · landlordwala.com/diagrams/council-improvement-notice