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New selective landlord licensing scheme comes into force in Haringey
A new selective landlord licensing scheme that aims to provide safer, well managed housing for renters came into force across in the London Borough of Haringey on Thursday 17 November 2022.
Following approval from the Secretary of State in August, Haringey Council’s new selective licensing scheme covers the council wards of Bounds Green, Bruce Castle, Harringay, Hermitage & Gardens, Noel Park, Northumberland Park, Seven Sisters, South Tottenham, St Ann’s, Tottenham Central, Tottenham Hale, West Green, White Hart Lane and Woodside in the east of the borough.
Under the licensing scheme, landlords who let their properties to a single household or two unrelated sharers must apply for a licence from the council to legally let the property. The council have said that landlords and agents who fail to comply will face enforcement action. This could include a civil financial penalty of up to £30,000 or a criminal prosecution. Other sanctions also apply.
This scheme is in addition to the existing borough-wide mandatory HMO and additional licensing scheme for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO).
The council have said that protecting private renters and ensuring they live in safe and warm homes is a key component of the licensing scheme. The council want landlords to take full responsibility for effective and appropriate management of their properties.
According to the council, the introduction of the new licensing scheme will not only improve housing conditions across the borough but also further support the council’s ambition to tackle inequality in Haringey.
With the cost of living continuing to rise, the selective licensing scheme will also focus on reducing fuel poverty. Identifying properties with the worst energy efficiency ratings will enable the council to provide landlords with the relevant support and education to make their properties more energy efficient.
Cllr Dana Carlin, Haringey Cabinet Member for Housing Services, Private Renters and Planning, said:
“Over 40% of households in Haringey live in the private rented sector (PRS). Unfortunately, many of our PRS tenants are living in homes in poor condition and with low standards of housing management. These properties also cause frustration to the wider community. Selective Landlord Licensing will help us to improve housing conditions for private renters, which is a key priority of this administration.
“We encourage those who let out homes in the designated areas to come forward and obtain a license. We will take enforcement action against landlords who do not obtain a license and whose properties do not meet the required standards.“
More information and full details on how to apply can be accessed via the council’s website.
Our free guide containing more information about property licensing and HMO planning restrictions in the London Borough of Haringey is available here.
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