Our Corporate Enforcement Policy explains how we enforce the law across our services.
It sets out:
- how we support people to comply with the law
- when we may take enforcement action
- what you can expect from us if we take enforcement action
Our aim is to be fair, proportionate, and transparent while protecting public health, safety, the environment, and community wellbeing.
What we enforce
We enforce a wide range of laws to protect:
- public health and safety
- the environment and public spaces
- neighbourhoods and quality of life
- public funds and council services
This includes areas such as:
- building safety
- environmental health and public safety
- city services operations
- housing standards and tenancy matters
- Council Tax and benefits
Our approach to enforcement
We believe enforcement should support compliance first, not punish unnecessarily.
In most cases, we follow a step-by-step approach:
- Advice and guidance: helping you understand what’s required
- Informal action: requests for action, warnings, or agreed timescales
- Formal action: notices or penalties where needed
- Prosecution: used only as a last resort
The action we take depends on:
- how serious the issue is
- the level of risk or harm
- whether there has been previous non-compliance
When we take formal action
We are more likely to take formal enforcement action where:
- there is a serious risk to health, safety, or the environment
- the law requires us to act
- informal action has failed
- there is repeated or deliberate non-compliance
What you can expect from us
You can expect us to:
- treat everyone fairly and without discrimination
- explain clearly what the issue is and what needs to be done
- act proportionately and consistently
- be courteous, professional, and transparent
- respect confidentiality where legally possible
Our officers are trained, authorised, and accountable for how they use their powers.
Your responsibilities
Individuals and businesses are responsible for complying with the law.
We encourage early contact with us if you are unsure about requirements or need advice.
Working with other organisations
Where responsibilities overlap, we work with other regulators such as the police, fire service, and government agencies to ensure effective and coordinated enforcement.
If you disagree with a decision
Where formal enforcement action is taken, we will:
- explain the reasons for the decision
- tell you what action is required
- explain any rights of appeal
How to complain
If you are unhappy with the service you receive:
- raise the issue with the officer or their manager
- use our formal complaints procedure if needed
