Barnet Council plans to introduce tougher licensing controls

Barnet Council is planning to introduce a stricter licensing scheme designed to clampdown on rogue landlords across the borough in north London.

The council wants to replicate selective licensing schemes that have come into play in other areas, with prosecution or a civil penalty of up to £30,000 for landlords that fail to comply with the scheme’s conditions.

Just over a quarter - 26% - of people in the borough were private renters in 2016, up from 17% in 2001, and that is why the council is far more focussed on stamping out substandard housing and improving conditions in the borough.

Speaking at a meeting of the housing committee this week, chairman Cllr Gabriel Rozenberg, said: “In Barnet today, the Conservatives are standing up for private renters.

“This new agenda comprises stricter licensing controls and proposals for tougher enforcement.

“We are putting tenants at the heart of our borough.”

It is understood that the council will hire additional members of staff to investigate the viability of selective licensing in the borough, as well as carry out extra housing enforcement and HMO licensing activities.

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