A council will next week decide on stricter rules for the private rental sector in its area – including employing a ‘Tenancy Intervention Officer’.
Telford & Wrekin council claims its Better Homes for All campaign – which has been running for some years – has improved the area’s private rental sector.
Now it wants to go further and has consulted on additional licensing of HMOs not currently covered by mandatory licensing.
The additional licensing would mean all HMO properties would be inspected for safety and hazard compliance and landlords would be required to manage issues such as anti-social behaviour.
Although the council is not making its decision until next week, the authority is already publicising the fact that “the results of the consultation … show a majority of people who responded were in favour of the proposals.”
The statement from the council adds that it will next week “set out proposals for an enhanced Landlord Support Programme to help landlords comply with the new requirements and those coming through the Renters Rights Act.
“This includes providing technical licensing support through a new Tenancy Intervention Officer to help landlords navigate the changes.”
A council spokesperson says: “If approved, additional licensing will help level the playing field across the HMO sector, providing tenants with greater protection while ensuring landlords meet clear, consistent and enforceable standards.
“At a time of significant national reform and proposed local change, we will also expand our support for landlords, helping them understand and comply with the legislation so we can work together to improve the quality and safety of rented homes and root out poor practice which damages the reputation of landlords.”
