Another council is expected to propose selective licensing with landlords told to pay £750 to £900 for a five year permit.

The 2021 census showed North Devon council – a largely rural authority – with 20% of its households in the private rental sector.

The council’s lead member for housing, Liberal Democrat Graham Bell, says there is no evidence that more landlords are selling up because of selective licensing in other areas.

He claims similar schemes elsewhere have reduced anti social behaviour, seen rogue landlords brought to justice, while rent rises have been minimal.

“Potentially it is a benefit… we are trying to improve people’s lives and it does seem to work” he adds.

But Tory councillor Pru Maskell believes landlords are selling up because of the pressure and it is becoming “less and less desirable” to be in the marketplace. Introducing selective licensing might push more landlords into holiday lets and there would be fewer homes for rent, she believes.

Council officers are now going to stage a feasibility study ahead of consultation on such a scheme.