Birmingham’s Labour controlled council is writing to Housing Secretary Michael Gove for consent to apply a new licensing scheme over 25 wards of the city.

The council’s ruling cabinet has backed the scheme, to run for five years, which according to a report to councillors will ensure all privately rented properties within the areas meet a “minimum housing standard” which gives tenants “a stable home”. 

No fewer than 40,000 homes will be operating under the licensing regime.

A report to the cabinet says: “A selective licensing scheme will ensure that all privately rented properties within the designated area meet a minimum housing standard, which gives the tenant a stable home and helps with building stable communities.

“Tenants would be confident that homes meet the minimum energy saving requirements which would contribute to the green city aspiration. A Selective Licensing Scheme will also contribute to alleviating fuel poverty as measures to improve standards will ensure that heating appliances are properly checked, maintained and working efficiently.

“Improvements in the housing standards should also make properties more secure which should assist with minimising crime, particularly burglary. We will work with partners to tackle rough sleeping and homelessness. The availability of and living in improved housing conditions should contribute to a reduction in homelessness.”

A consultation on the scheme ran over the Christmas period for 10 weeks up to January 4. 

As part of its response to concerns raised in the consultation, the council says: “Selective licensing works in unison with other strategies and with partners such as West Midlands Police to address issues at a neighbourhood level in a holistic manner. Selective licensing will enhance the community safety partnership response.”