Preston council, led by Labour, is consulting on a selective licensing scheme in just three wards.

If formally agreed it would mean £1,050 per property out of landlords’ pockets.

A statement claims: “The proposals follow evidence gathered by the Council showing that private rented homes in these three wards are more likely to experience poor property conditions, including damp and mould, excess cold, disrepair and other hazards, and that these issues are concentrated in areas with high levels of deprivation.

“Stock condition modelling … estimated that around 16% of privately rented properties in Preston contain Category 1 hazards, the most serious risks to health and safety under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System.”

A council spokesperson says: “Everyone deserves to live in a safe, warm and well-managed home, and we are committed to ensuring that residents across Preston have access to good-quality private rented accommodation.

“The proposal …  is based on detailed evidence showing higher levels of poor housing conditions and housing-related issues in these areas than elsewhere in the city. 

“By focusing our efforts where the need is greatest, we can take a targeted approach to improving standards and supporting healthier, stronger communities. 

“I want to reassure responsible landlords that this scheme is not designed to penalise those who already provide safe, well-managed homes and work positively with their tenants. 

“In fact, responsible landlords stand to benefit from a level playing field that helps tackle poor practice where it exists.”

The proposed licence fee has two parts split into Part A (£470) payable on application and Part B (£580) payable “once the council is minded to grant the licence.”

It adds that: “No discounts are proposed, and payment by direct debit or instalments is not proposed.”