New legislation for landlords

Local landlords who let certain types of properties are being urged to check whether they need to apply for a licence following recent changes to legislation from central government.

The changes apply to any landlord who lets a property with five or more occupants living as two or more households.  Landlords must apply to the Borough Council for a licence by 1 October 2018. 

Previously this type of property only required a licence – known as a House in Multiple Occupation Licence (HMO) - if it consisted of three or more storeys. However, changes to mandatory licensing from central government mean that all properties let in this way now need to be licensed.

Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council charge for these licences, but the charge is tailored to the size of the HMO and the number of occupants living in them.

Failure to apply for a license for an HMO could result in prosecution or civil penalties with fines of up to £30,000.

Councillor Mike Hall, Leader and Executive Member for Housing and Community Safety at the Borough Council said “This new license is good news for tenants living in HMO’s. It gives tenants the security to know that the property they rent is being managed properly and meets certain safety standards. Licenses will only be issued where the standards are being met. Landlords who want to let property in this way will need to ensure they meet the required standard and apply for a license in order to avoid a hefty fine.”

If you are a Landlord of a licensable or soon-to-be licensable HMO, please visit House in multiple occupation (HMO)

If you are in any doubt about whether these changes apply to you, please contact the Private Sector Housing team by calling 01455 255 734 or emailing PrivateSectorHousing@hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk