Hounslow Council Proposes Licensing Scheme For Rented HMOs
Regulating privately rented houses in multiple occupation
Hounslow Council proposes to introduce another additional licensing scheme for privately rented Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) to effectively regulate these properties and to help tackle anti-social behaviour (ASB) associated with HMOs.
This borough-wide scheme will include smaller HMOs and HMOs converted into self-contained units without the appropriate building regulations and fire safety requirements.
The Council says: "We believe that this will provide a consistent approach and help us continue to improve housing standards in the private rented market, to protect tenants and tackle rogue landlords."
A public consultation has been launched on the proposed additional licensing scheme.
You can download the consultation documents that outline the preferred proposals and complete a survey on line at haveyoursay.hounslow.gov.uk/community-safety-and-enforcement/co-hmo-licensing/or contact housing.enforcement@hounslow.gov.uk for a paper copy.
Cabinet member for Communities and Workforce, Councillor Katherine Dunne said: “The introduction of an additional licensing scheme to govern a wider range of HMOs is an important step for the council to take in protecting vulnerable people in our borough and to clamp down on rogue landlords.
"Everybody is entitled to live in well-maintained, safe accommodation and it is important that all sectors of the private rental market are regulated. This regulation is also important in helping reduce anti-social behaviour and the social issues that stem from overcrowding. This affects everyone in our communities, so please use this opportunity to have your say.”
The closing date for the consultation is 27 December 2019.
October 30, 2019