Islington Council is currently seeking input on its draft policy on the compulsory licensing of houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) and regulation of the private rented sector. <br><br>Landlords and tenants attended a consultation open day on 12 July, where they had the chance to comment on Islington’s draft policy. They also found out about the council’s services for landlords and tenants. <br><br>The compulsory licensing of HMOs will be introduced as a result of the new Housing Act 2004, which will take effect in October 2005.<br><br>HMOs can include houses containing bedsits, shared houses and hostels, and cover properties where more than one household shares a kitchen or bathroom. Local authorities will need to license HMOs with three or more storeys and more than five occupants.<br><br>Councillor Jyoti Vaja, executive member for housing and community safety said: <br><br>“Islington Council is taking advantage of the new legislation as an opportunity to build on its work improving the standard of rented housing available in the borough.<br><br>This is good news for tenants who will get vital protection from dodgy landlords - as last month's successful prosecution in Holloway showed. <br><br>Islington has over 1,200 licensable HMOs, but it is expected that most will not meet the standards being introduced as part of the Housing Act 2004.<br><br>Once we identify these properties, we will be able to help landlords improve them through advising on improvement works and assistance with grants.”<br><br>The consultation on the draft policy is running until 31 July. The policy and a feedback questionnaire are also available on the council website (www.islington.gov.uk), from 222 Upper Street or by telephoning 0207 527 3083.<br><br><br>- ENDS -
Page Last Updated: 17 December 2009