Council to get tough on unlicensed landlords

Published by Jane Gething-Lewis for Bristol City Council in Housing and also in Local Government

PRESS RELEASE

Bristol City Council is warning it will be taking a hard line with landlords of houses in multiple occupation that have failed to apply for a licence.

The legal requirement to have a licence for certain types of houses in multiple occupation (those with three storeys or more with five or more occupiers) came into force on the 6th April 2006 and since that time the council has been processing and issuing many licences for these properties.

To be licensed, the property must be well managed by a ‘fit and proper’ manager and have adequate amenities and facilities for the number of people living there.

There is a five yearly charge for being licensed, which for a building with five units of accommodation is £360.

The council has been pleased with the numbers of landlords that have come forward, but now is starting to concentrate on those landlords that have not done so.

Councillor Judith Price, Executive Member for Neighbourhoods, said: “Landlords who let out property without a licence can expect to face action. Bristol City Council has a responsibility to protect and support tenants and ensure that accommodation is fit for purpose and meet health and safety requirements.

“We will continue to work with landlords to help them to meet current standards. Any landlord or tenant wanting further information is invited to contact a member of the local authority’s private housing team.”

Council records are being checked and staff are visiting properties to track down those landlords that haven't applied for a licence. An additional £100 will charged on top of their licence fee to cover the cost of the work in trying to identify them.

Where unlicensed properties are found landlords could face prosecution; currently the maximum fine for failing to have a licence is £20,000. Tenants could also be entitled to apply to get their rent back and the Council could take over the management of the property.