Changes to the way houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) are licenced come into force on Monday 1 October 2018 and Eden District Council’s Housing Team is urging local landlords, to check to see if they need to apply for a licence before the new changes come into force.
The new legislation the government has introduced is designed to drive up housing and safety standards in the private rented sector, it will mean more local landlords will now need to apply for a licence.
This will affect landlords if you rent out a property that;
- is rented to five or more people who form more than one household
- has any number of storeys
- tenants share at least one facility such as a toilet, bathroom or a kitchen or the accommodation lacks one of these amenities
- some flats will also need licensing
Eden District Council’s Deputy Leader and Housing and Health Portfolio Holder, Councillor Lesley Grisedale, said: “We will do all we can to help landlords prepare for the new requirements for the licensing of houses in multiple occupation that take effect on 1 October 2018. Three storey HMOs that already have a licence under the existing licensing scheme do not need a new licence until the current licence expires.
“However, many more HMOs may now require a licence for the first time. I would encourage landlords to contact the Housing Team as soon as possible to check whether their properties will need to be licensed and to get the advice they need to take them through the licensing process.”
If you think that your property, or a property which you manage on behalf of the owner, which is within Eden may need a licence, it is important that you contact Eden District Council, as soon as possible.
Landlords who operate licensable HMOs without a licence will be committing an offence and may be prosecuted.
A standard licence costs £378.
If you would like further information, or to apply for a licence please contact the Council’s Housing Team by calling 01768 817817 or email: [email protected].
