A council looks set to introduce selective licensing in five areas in April.
The extension of selective licensing areas covering around 3,700 private rented properties in Trinity, Queensgate, Gannow, Daneshouse and Stoneyholme areas of Burnley, and a new area in Padiham.
This follows a 10-week consultation involving residents, private landlords, managing agents and other interested parties.
The council claims that selective licensing in the borough is part of a wider regeneration strategy for the areas.
And a council statement claims: “The aim is to support landlords and tenants and improve housing management in the private rented sector to help tackle issues such as falling house prices, anti-social behaviour, and poor property condition.”
It continues: “While the Council prefer to support landlords through training days, landlord evenings and voluntary accreditation to improve standards, they also have a proven track record of successful civil penalty and prosecution action. Sending a clear message that Council will not tolerate those poor landlords that continually flaunt the legislation.”
A council spokesperson comments: “Private renters deserve to live in safe and decent accommodation. While many private rental properties in the borough are well-managed, there are still instances where homes lack gas or electrical certificates, have no heating, are plagued with damp and mould, or are missing smoke detectors. Selective licensing plays a crucial role in tackling these problems.”