A council is launching a new licensing scheme for landlords of houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) – and they will have to pay £1,211 per property.

A Bolton Council statement says: “It is unacceptable that landlords cut corners in critical areas such as failing to obtain fire, gas, and electrical safety certificates or ensuring properties are safe.

“Many landlords operate responsibly, but a substantial proportion of HMOs are poorly managed, unsafe and impact on the community.

“In the past three years, the council has received 1,885 complaints about disrepair in rented homes, typically relating to fire safety, electrical and structural defects, overcrowding, cold and damp, and poor waste management and pest control. “

The fee for a five-year licence will be £1,211 per property, and the income from the licence fees will fund the costs associated with administering, running and enforcing the scheme.

Any HMO landlord failing to join or adhere to licensing requirements may be subject to court proceedings or issued with a civil penalty (fine) of up to £40,000.

A council spokesperson says: “There are some who flout the law, cut costs to maximise profits, and put people’s lives at risk.

“Minimum property and maintenance standards are there to save lives, and it is unacceptable that landlords cut corners in critical areas such as failing to obtain fire, gas, and electrical safety certificates or ensuring properties are safe.

“Overcrowded HMOs can also damage once thriving communities, as tenants move on quickly and anti-social behaviour can flare up in the neighbourhoods.

“The new licensing will help tackle these issues, and when the council receives direct complaints, it will now have stronger powers to take action.”