New powers to tackle anti-social behaviour
Published: 28/10/2026
We know that anti-social behaviour can have a real impact on your life. It can leave you feeling worried, tired or unsafe in your own home.
Your safety and peace of mind matter to us. So we want to tell you about new measures the Government has introduced through the Crime and Policing Act 2026.
They give councils, housing associations and the police stronger powers to tackle anti-social behaviour and support communities. The main changes started on 26 October 2026.
If anti-social behaviour is affecting you, whether you're a customer or a homeowner, we want to hear from you. Get in touch at www.rhp.org.uk/contact-us and we'll look at the best way to help.
FAQs
Has anything changed about how I report anti-social behaviour?
No. You should keep reporting it to the right organisation. That's us, your local council or the police, depending on the problem. Not sure who to contact? Get in touch with us at www.rhp.org.uk/contact-us and we'll point you in the right direction.
What should I do if someone's in danger or a crime is happening now?
Call 999. For anything that isn't an emergency, call the police on 101.
Can you take action against a home that's causing serious problems?
Yes, in some cases. We can now issue a Closure Notice ourselves for a home we own or manage. Before, only councils and the police could do this.
A Closure Notice closes the home for a short time. It's for homes linked to serious anti-social behaviour or crime. The organisations involved can then ask a court for a Closure Order, which keeps the home closed for longer. They now have 72 hours, up from 48, to do that.
What can I do if I feel nobody has dealt with my report properly?
You can ask for an ASB Case Review, sometimes called the Community Trigger. It's a way to ask the organisations involved to look at your case again. The people who oversee local policing will also have new responsibilities. They'll help you understand how to ask for a review and give you a way to raise concerns about decisions.
Can the police do anything about off-road bikes and e-scooters?
Yes. The police no longer need to give a warning before they take away a vehicle that's being used anti-socially. That includes off-road bikes, illegal motorbikes, vehicles driven dangerously or causing a nuisance, and some e-bikes and e-scooters. Report it to the police on 101, or call 999 if someone's in danger.
Where can I find out more about the Crime and Policing Act 2026?
You can read more on the Government's website at www.gov.uk/government/collections/crime-and-policing-act-2026. If you have questions about how the changes affect you, get in touch with us at www.rhp.org.uk/contact-us.