Private landlords in the Barking & Dagenham have been told that they need to apply for the new Selective Licencing Scheme which will help to protect tenants and ensure that people can live in a safe and well-managed home.
The new scheme will come into force on 1 September, replacing the current Licensing Schemes which will end on 31 August 2019.
Landlords and letting agents have been told that they should apply for the licence before 31 August, which will be valid for five years.
Landlords who have licences under the old scheme must still apply for a licence under the new scheme unless they hold a Mandatory HMO (Houses in multiple occupation) licence as they can wait until their current licence expires.
The scheme will allow around 20,000 households in the borough who rely on the initiative to protect them from rogue landlords in the private rental sector, to rent knowing that their properties have satisfied laid down conditions, and are safe to live in.
Since their introduction, the schemes have helped the council to instigate 70 prosecutions, and serve 570 enforcement notices requiring properties to be made safe, as well over 100 operations alongside the Met Police and London Fire Brigade to identify properties in need of improvements.
Councillor Margaret Mullane, Cabinet Member for Enforcement and Community Safety, said: “We’re determined to protect our tenants, making sure they live in safe homes that are in good condition and well managed. Landlords and letting agents must now apply for the new Selective Licensing Scheme, which will continue to improve standards in the private rented sector.
“The new Selective License Scheme applies to the whole of the borough and is the first of this kind to be given government approval anywhere in the country. Everyone deserves a decent and safe home and we will continue to drive up standards in Barking and Dagenham to protect our residents.
Landlords and property managing agents, who let properties in Barking and Dagenham can apply for the licence here.
If you require assistance with your new application from the team at Brookings please do not hesitate to contact us at askus@brookings.co.uk
