According to new research by the national residential landlords association (NRLA) 56% of english local authorities don't record the number of complaints they receive related to private rented accommodation.

In addition only 1% of HHSRS property inspections were followed up by a prosecution and only 4% of improvement notices were followed by imposition of a civil penalty.

Chris Norris of the NRLA stated that without a "more effective approach" by local authorities "it will be impossible for them to take the steps necessary to enforce regulations".