Landlords urged to check council’s licensing requirements

Landlords urged to check council’s licensing requirements

0:04 AM, 10th September 2024, About 4 weeks ago

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Sandwell Council is urging private landlords to check if they need to apply for a housing license under a new scheme being introduced on October 1.

The borough-wide additional licensing scheme covers all Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), bedsits and rooms in houses that are not already subject to mandatory licensing.

Landlords who rent out such properties in Sandwell are asked to register for a license before the scheme goes into effect.

The cost of a five-year license is £1001, with discounts available for landlords who are members of accredited landlord schemes.

Improve housing conditions

Sandwell’s cabinet member for housing and sustainable development, Councillor Vicki Smith, said: “We want to improve housing conditions and make sure that landlords are providing good quality, safe HMOs.

“While we know that many landlords already do this, there are still too many properties that are poorly managed and are in unsafe and unsatisfactory conditions.”

She added: “We will work with landlords to see that their property is up to standard and ensure it is safe to live in for tenants, and that all the licensing conditions and management regulations are followed.”

Landlords could face an unlimited fine

The council warns landlords who fail to license a property that requires one could face an unlimited fine or a civil penalty of up to £30,000.

The new licensing scheme follows a 10-week consultation period from January to March 2024.

Large HMOs, with five or more occupants, already require landlords to have a mandatory license.


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