Licence to improve housing

Landlords in south Warwickshire are being reminded that private rented property may have to be licensed, following a change in the law last month aimed at improving housing conditions. To date, around 30 landlords and property managing agents in the area have enquired about an HMO (houses in multiple occupation) licence, but Stratford-on-Avon District Council warns there may be many more properties in the area that need to be licensed.  

The new law applies to properties of at least three floors, with five or more tenants belonging to two or more households. Landlords with such properties who fail to apply for a licence before 6 July 2006 may face fines of up to £20,000, a criminal record and, potentially, rent repayment orders.  

"Tenants in larger shared properties may be potentially vulnerable to poor housing conditions, so we want to work with landlords to drive up standards and eliminate poor quality accommodation," said Cllr Simon Jackson, the District Council's Portfolio Holder for Environment.  

"Although a number of responsible landlords who own and let properties in the Stratford District have made enquiries, I believe there are many more who have not yet done so.  

"I would urge those landlords to check whether they need a licence from the District Council, which will provide every support, otherwise they may not be able to charge rent.  

"HMOs provide much needed affordable housing, especially for younger people. The licensing scheme particularly applies to large houses where tenants who are not related live together and share facilities - a kitchen for example.  

"There are severe penalties if landlords fail to licence their properties in time, which reflects the seriousness both we and the Government are placing on improving housing conditions."  

Properties not covered by the new law include those owned by a housing association or trust (also known as Registered Social Landlords or RSLs). Anyone who is unsure whether their property needs to be licensed, or if they would like a guide to the new laws, should contact the District Council on 01789 260819.  

Licences for HMOs in Stratford-on-Avon District cost from £477 to £677 and are valid for up to 5 years. For more information on mandatory HMO licensing and to identify whether a property needs licensing visit www.propertylicence.gov.uk