One of the first councils in the UK to introduce selective licensing has agreed a new and much-expanded licensing regime.
Gateshead local authority introduced its first selective licensing back in 2017 and claims that since then it has been “ensuring private rented homes are safe, warm and well-managed, and addressing issues such as poverty, poor housing conditions and overcrowding” as well as supporting “tenants with mental health issues, improving access to specialist services and helping wider communities by tackling issues relating to anti-social behaviour and crime.”
Now new arrangements are being introduced in two phases.
From June 1, licences will be required in areas of central Gateshead, Birtley, Chopwell and High Fell, as well as for three- or four-person shared HMOs throughout existing designated areas.
From October 1, the scheme will expand again to cover additional areas of central Gateshead, Felling and Swalwell.
The new areas, which include no fewer than 5,391 additional addresses, have been selected due to what the council calls ‘issues relating to deprivation, anti-social behaviour and the level of private rental housing that needs improvement.”
A spokesperson says: “Selective landlord licensing makes sure that tenants are aware of the standards they should expect, and that landlords understand their responsibilities. The overarching goal is to foster strong, healthy, and vibrant neighbourhoods in Gateshead.
“While many landlords in Gateshead provide good, safe accommodation, there are some that take advantage of tenants, forcing them to live in sub-standard conditions, subjecting them to harassment, or the threat of illegal eviction.
“These licensing arrangements will help us raise standards by holding these landlords accountable, and we will not hesitate to take appropriate action against those who fail to comply with the conditions of their licence.
“Likewise, this initiative also clarifies the standards expected of tenants. Anti-social behaviour or failure to act responsibly in relation to their tenancy could result in eviction.”
All landlords within the new designated areas must apply for a license by the beginning of their phase. Applications will open this coming Saturday.
