Landlords and managing agents who let large houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) to tenants in Islington may need to apply for a licence. Licensing is part of a nationwide drive to improve standards in private rented accommodation.
Landlords with licensable properties can apply for licences from 6 April 2006. Properties with three or more floors, with five or more tenants belonging to two or more households will be required by law to be licensed. However houses containing self-contained flats and those owned by local authorities and housing associations will be exempt.
Islington's executive member for housing & community safety, Cllr Jyoti Vaja, said
"In Islington we are already doing a lot to help people in shared houses -- and working well with private landlords. The new national licensing scheme will back this up -- and support our efforts to increase the quality of privately-rented housing, including offering grants.
"Anyone can find out more by coming to one of our drop-in sessions or contacting the Council. Shared houses are an important part of the Islington scene, and we welcome this latest step to help people who live in them."
Mandatory licensing will standardise existing registration schemes across England, making the process simpler for landlords and tenants to understand. Across-the-board procedures and stringent enforcement will also make it difficult for landlords to evade licensing. Those who fail to comply before 3 July 2006 may face fines of up to £20,000, a criminal record and potentially, repayment of twelve months rent.
For more information on mandatory HMO licensing and to identify whether you have a property that needs licensing, visit www.propertylicence.gov.uk
In Islington, a basic HMO licence costs £110 per letting and licences are valid for up to five years. A fee reduction is available for those submitting full applications before 31 May 2006 and for landlords accredited under the London Landlords Accreditation Scheme (LLAS).
Islington Council is running weekly drop-in sessions for personal advice on HMO licensing every Wednesday, 1pm to 5pm at 159 Upper Street, London, N1 1RE.
To apply for a licence in Islington or find out more, telephone Islington Council on 020 7527 3083. Application forms can also be downloaded from the counciI's website at www.islington.gov.uk/housing/privatehousing.
Information is also available on the various grants of up to £20,000 offered to landlords to help improve their properties.
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Page Last Updated: 29 July 2008