Wokingham

Wokingham Landlords and property managing agents who let large houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) to tenants in the Wokingham district may need to apply for a licence. Licensing is part of a nationwide drive to improve standards in private rented accommodation. Landlords with licensable properties can apply from April 6.

In the Wokingham district privately rented properties that are three floors or more in height and have five or more tenants, and where basic facilities (such as bathrooms and kitchens) are shared, may need to be licensed. Failure to licence such properties could lead to prosecution and a fine of up to £20,000. The breaking of any conditions on the licence could result in fines up to £5,000. However, landlords who are already part of the voluntary accreditation scheme in the Wokingham district may be entitled to a reduction in fees if they own a licensable property.

Although Wokingham Council is currently working to identify properties within the Wokingham district that may need to be licensed, it is the responsibility of landlords to apply for a licence.

Wokingham Principal environmental health officer Joe Dray explains, “Wokingham District Council is looking forward to supporting local landlords and answering any queries they may have about the new HMO licensing scheme. HMOs provide much needed affordable housing, particularly for younger people. However, tenants in larger shared properties are often vulnerable to poor housing conditions. The Wokingham council wants to work with landlords to drive up standards and eliminate poor quality accommodation.”

Mandatory licensing will standardise existing registration schemes across England, making the process simpler for landlords and tenants to understand. Across the board procedures and stringent enforcement will also make it difficult for landlords to evade licensing. Those who fail to comply before July 3 may face fines of up to £20,000, a criminal record and, potentially, rent repayment orders.

To grant a licence the local authority must be satisfied that:

* The proposed licence holder, the landlord or managing agent, are ‘fit and proper’ people
* Properties and tenancies are managed appropriately
* The accommodation meets all minimum standards such as sufficient number of toilets, kitchens and bathrooms for the number of residents

For more information on mandatory HMO licensing and to identify whether you have a property that needs licensing, visit www.propertylicence.gov.uk. To apply for a licence for a property in Wokingham district, call Joe Dray or Rhian Hayes at Wokingham District Council on (0118) 974 6395.

Wokingham District Council