Southwark Council has received approval from the Secretary of State to implement one of the country’s most extensive private landlord licensing schemes, signalling improved support for private renters.
This new scheme follows the introduction of two previous licensing initiatives: a borough-wide additional licensing scheme for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) and a smaller selective licensing scheme, initially piloted for 6 months, that covered about 6,000 properties and successfully rolled out thereafter for a five-year period.
The primary aim of the licensing scheme is to address renters’ major concerns, including unattended repairs, unresponsive landlords, and problems of damp and mould, which is a priority issue for the council. The scheme also intends to assist private tenants facing challenges related to the cost of living crisis, including fuel poverty.
Councillor Dora Dixon-Fyle, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, expressed satisfaction with the extended licensing scheme, emphasising the importance of working with landlords to improve housing standards and overall renting experience for residents.
This month, the selective licensing has been expanded to include a total of 19 out of the 23 wards in the borough. Starting from November 1 this year, additional wards will also require licensing to further enhance rental property standards and support private tenants in those areas.
Full article from Southwark Council here
