A statutory consultation to extend the use of Selective Licensing and bring in new powers Is now underway in Wirral. 

There are around 27,000 privately rented properties in Wirral and the schemes are focused on areas where there is a higher than average number of private rented housing available, having a higher turnover of tenants and poorer property conditions. 

Wirral introduced its first Selective Licensing Scheme in the borough in 2015 in four areas. Selective licensing currently operates in 10 different areas.  

A spokesperson says: “The vast majority of landlords are responsible and this is not about them. 

“This scheme is about tackling rogue landlords and protecting tenants in Wirral, dealing with those who provide – and profit from – renting out homes which are not fit for purpose and poor quality.

“As part of the consultation, residents will also be asked their views on a range of new policies and procedures relating to powers to regulate private landlords who fail their tenants including amongst others banning orders, use of the national rogue landlord database and rent repayment orders.”

The consultation ends in March.