Brent consults on "large-scale" licensing scheme for landlords

The London Borough of Brent is to consult on introducing a "large-scale" licensing scheme for private sector landlords.

The scheme would require landlords of up to 10,000 homes in the area to apply for a licence. Brent’s existing scheme only covers large houses in multiple occupation.

Under the extended scheme, all private landlords of smaller houses in multiple occupation in the borough would need a licence along with the landlords of all privately-rented homes in three wards: Harlesden, Willesden Green and Wembley Central.

The council said the aim of the extended scheme would be to “raise standards for the minority of tenants who struggle to get repairs done, live in poor conditions or suffer overcrowding”.

It added: “If the proposals are approved, they would also help neighbours concerned about fly-tipping and noise from some privately-rented homes.”

A copy of the consultation can be viewed here. 

The council promised that licence fees would be reasonable and that it would offer discounts and incentives. Breaches of licence conditions will attract penalties, however.

Cllr Margaret McLennan, Brent Council's Lead Member for Housing, said: "If you are a tenant, landlord, live or run a business near a rented property, help us raise standards for privately-rented homes and flats by having a say. 

"We believe that everyone will benefit from our proposals. Local people will have better homes, neighbours will be reassured and it will be good for landlords' business."

She added: "Our proposals are aimed at the minority of private landlords who give their tenants a raw deal and also at stamping out anti-social behaviour by tenants."

Newham Council became the first local authority in England to introduce a mandatory scheme to license all private rented properties in April last year.

It recently revealed that it was prosecuting 134 landlords for various offences under the Housing Act.