PENDLE MP Andrew Stephenson has pressed the government on action against rogue landlords.

The Tory backbencher asked a Parliamentary Question of Communities Secretary Sajid Javid.

Mr Stephenson asked him: “What steps is your department is taking to promote responsible letting and deal with rogue landlords?”

Housing minister Gavin Barwell replied: “We have issued ‘How to Rent’ guidance and made it a legal requirement for letting and managing agents to belong to one of three Government approved redress schemes offering a clear route for landlords and tenants to pursue complaints.

“The government banned letting agent fees paid by tenants to improve competition and give renters greater clarity and control over what they will pay.

“We announced on March 28 that we will make Client Money Protection mandatory for letting and managing agents that handle client money to ensure every agent is giving tenants and landlords the financial protection they deserve.

“The Housing and Planning Act 2016 introduced further powers to crack down on rogue landlords, including a database of rogue landlords and property agents, banning orders for the most serious and prolific offenders, civil penalties of up to £30,000 and extended rent repayment orders.”

Mr Barwell added: “We are committed to taking action to tackle rogue landlords and agents.”