A council says a new clampdown on HMOs is not intended to catch out what it calls “good landlords”.

Salford council is proposing a citywide additional HMO (Houses in Multiple Occupation) Licensing scheme.

A final decision on it will be taken next week. 

If councillors agree to the proposals, a consultation would begin. 

The council would have to prove that there is evidence that a proportion of the HMOs are not managed effectively and causing issues for those occupying.

A spokesperson for the council says: “Information shows that a huge proportion of Section 257 HMOs failed to meet expected property standards. 

“Many properties were found to suffer from poor maintenance, damp, and inadequate energy efficiency, resulting in cold and unhealthy living environments. 

“And the majority also failed to meet minimum fire safety standards.

“These findings make it clear that as a local authority we should give consideration to use powers available to us, and take action. 

“The private rented sector has seen rapid growth in Salford in the past decade, and we must make sure that people have access to decent accommodation.

“Many landlords provide good, safe homes, and we are not here to target them. 

We are focused on tackling those who exploit tenants and allow poor conditions to persist.”