Landlords’ Forum to provide insights on home safety, grants and government updates

New tenant holding a box

A special event for local landlords will equip them with the latest industry and regulatory knowledge to thrive in the local housing sector.

We are inviting private sector landlords to our free Landlord's Forum event, taking place in Penrith Town Hall on Thursday 6 July 2023, from 5pm and 7pm.

The popular event returns once again this year to provide landlords in the district with valuable insights regarding tenancy management, eligibility for home upgrade grants, government updates relevant to the private rental sector, and strategies for effectively supporting vulnerable residents.

Landlords can look forward to invaluable updates from the panel made up of representatives from the Council’s Green Homes Grant and Housing teams, as well as Cumbria Fire and Rescue, and the Department of Work and Pensions.

The session will tackle key topics such as home safety, benefits and direct payments, and how to access potential grants available for home upgrades.

The forum event is designed to be a platform for conversation and mutual support. Private landlords are encouraged to share their experiences and challenges, and put forward their suggestions on how local government can better support them. Attendees will also learn about Property Links, a unique free service that supports landlords and tenants at risk of homelessness through matchmaking.

Councillor Judith Derbyshire, Westmorland and Furness Council's Cabinet Member for Housing and Homelessness, said:

"We know that private landlords play a fundamental role in the local housing sector, not just as property providers, but as pivotal contributors to our communities.

"The Council is really keen to collaborate with our local landlords. We can offer support in navigating the complex web of regulations and responsibilities that come with being a landlord, from understanding safety obligations to keeping pace with the latest developments and best practices in the sector.

"We hope plenty will be able to join us at the Forum event!”

Admission is free of charge, but pre-booking is mandatory to ensure your place. To register, email david.fincham@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk. Refreshments will be provided at the event.

For further information on our support and advice for landlords, visit: www.westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk/housing/private-landlords.