The LexisPSL team outline the powers available to local authorities looking to establish a new market.

The government recently published guidance on the Tenant Fees Act 2019 (TFA 2019). Robin Stewart and David Smith of Anthony Gold Solicitors look at some of the key questions relating to the guidance, including enforcement, penalties and some controversial aspects such as guidance pertaining to payment of damages.

Richard Heller considers the potential impact of Qualter and others v Crown Court at Preston [2019] EWHC 906 (Admin) could have on the way regional Trading Standards services investigate and prosecute criminal offences (registration required).

How can local authorities avoid adverse costs orders in the First-tier Tribunal? Robin Stewart sets out the lessons from a case where a council failed to revoke an emergency prohibition order over a property.

Neil Brand sets out the key considerations for local authorities and landlords arising out of the Homes (Fitness for Habitation) Act.

A recent Divisional Court ruling on unfair commercial practices will be of interest to trading standards teams across the country, writes Tony Watkin.

Michael Dempsey discusses the growing trend in the use of the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 by local planning authorities to obtain confiscation orders against those committing planning offences and examines a recent case that serves as a reminder that POCA should not override or unduly influence other planning decisions.

Ibrahim Hasan looks at the key changes in the new RIPA Codes of Practice for Surveillance and Covert Human Intelligence Sources (CHIS).

Civil sanctions in environmental law: what are they and why do they matter? Tim Green and Gus Baker explain.

Helen Simm looks at what a recent Court of Appeal on privilege means for public bodies, who may find themselves facing a criminal or regulatory investigation as a result of an incident, accident or whistleblower allegations.

Dean Underwood considers the Divisional Court's recent decision on fees for licensing houses in multiple occupation and its far-reaching implications for local housing authorities nationwide.

Sarah Greenhalgh sets out the key points arising from the Social Housing Green Paper and accompanying consultation, and her initial view on the likely targets for regulatory reform.

There have been a number of recent developments in the law and regulation of drones. Paul Feild sets out the key points for local government lawyers.

The Divisional Court has recently considered what a local authority can include in upfront fees for licensing houses in multiple occupation (HMOs). Jonathan Manning analyses the outcome.

Adam Kendall analyses a recent judicial review challenge brought by a company over data seized and copied by a council's trading standards department.

Sarah Wilson sets out the key considerations in the recent prosecution for manslaughter of a defendant who sold 'fat-burning capsules'.

When should surveillance evidence be served? Catherine Burt looks at the lessons from a recent appeal involving a city council.

Wendi Batteson of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council sets out some of the lessons learned from a recent planning enforcement case.

Edmund Walters discusses a recent case in which he successfully appeared in the Divisional Court on a point concerning the laying of informations and doing so before the six-month time limit expires.

Raj Shah outlines important guidance and explains local authorities’ duties to ensure they comply with modern slavery legislation.