A local authority in London is threatening landlords with enforcement action if they don’t pay up for a new license.

Lewisham’s Labour council has launched a new licensing scheme for all HMOs in the borough. 

It came into effect back in April and applies to all eligible HMOs in Lewisham not covered by the national mandatory scheme. 

An estimated 6,000 additional HMOs now need a licence in order to operate and the council claims every HMO will be inspected as part of the process.

HMOs covered by the scheme will be required to meet set standards for room sizes, provision of shared facilities and health and safety.

With one in four Lewisham residents living in the private rented sector, the council claims that extending HMO licensing is a key part of its “commitment to supporting private renters and tackling poor quality housing in the borough.”

Landlords will also be required to have clear plans in place to tackle any problems related to their properties that impact on the local community, such as fly tipping. 

Those who fail to comply with the new scheme will face enforcement action – including the risk of a fine or criminal prosecution.

A statement Issued by the council this week warns that HMO landlords who are yet to apply for a licence should do so, “to avoid the risk of enforcement action.”

A council spokeswoman says: “Too many private renters are having to deal with unsafe or insecure accommodation – particularly those living in HMOs. 

“Licensing all HMOs will help improve the quality of housing across Lewisham and help us protect our residents from rogue landlords.

“Hundreds of HMO landlords have already come forward to register their property, enabling us to carry out inspections and ensure they meet our high standards. 

“We will be working pro-actively to ensure that every eligible HMO is licensed and will take action against those landlords who fail to comply.”