With a new licensing scheme coming into force to improve the quality of private rented properties in Enfield on 1 September, landlords are being urged to apply for a licence now.
The scheme, known as Additional HMO Licensing covers an estimated 8,000 privately rented homes across the borough.
The new scheme increases licensing across the borough to include all properties that are occupied by three or four people living in two or more households who share amenities such as kitchens and bathrooms.
It aims to improve living conditions, make homes safe for tenants and provide residents with a more desirable place to live.
Landlords and agents can check if they need a licence and make an application by clicking here.
Enfield Council’s Cabinet Member for Licensing & Regulatory Services, Cllr George Savva, said: “‘People in Enfield have a right to expect a decent and safe standard of private rented accommodation, which is well managed and maintained.
“Having a licence will allow landlords to demonstrate that they provide decent quality accommodation for tenants, and we will work with landlords to support them to achieve the licence conditions.
“We believe the scheme will improve the reputation of private landlords, as well as Enfield’s reputation for providing quality housing.
“The scheme is a major step forward in improving living standards for many Enfield residents.”
Notes to editors
* The fee for an additional HMO licence is £900 for up to 5 years
* Part 1 of the fee is £550 and is due when the application is made. Part 2 is £350 and will be payable when the licence is granted
* The private rented sector in Enfield is estimated to be 34% of all tenures; over 43,500 properties. Of this, in excess of an estimated 8,000 properties will require licensing under this new additional HMO licensing scheme.
* Enfield Cabinet decided to introduce this licensing scheme due to evidence which showed that there are a significant proportion of HMOs that that are not being managed effectively and give rise to problems of poor housing and antisocial behaviour for the tenants and the public
* Between 29% and 59% of HMOs are estimated to have serious hazards that need addressing
* On average 23% of HMOs have been associated with anti-social behaviour in the last 3 years
* These factors mean that the Council has increasingly had to intervene for tenants and the public to address issues in HMOs.
- This article was first published on: 21 August 2020