Local Authorities’
Licencing schemes – more and more Local authorities(LA) are seeing these schemes up!
- How should landlords apply for a LA license?
- There are different types of licensing and each council has the option to widen the scope of a license. You can get an application form online from each individual council. Just remember what you are applying for a HMO, mandatory or selective license.
- How long does the license last for?
- Normally 5 years, but as always, each council can choose how long the license is for.
- Is there a charge?
- Yes, there is a fee and this again varies widely per council and dependent upon which license.
- Can landlords query the terms of a license before accepting it?
- Yes, there is a 14-day consultation process before the licensed is issued. If you have accepted then you have 28 days to appeal to a tribunal. Remember this can be a lengthy process with no guarantees.
- What should landlords do if a LA inspection covers something that’s not compliant?
- Tenants are allowed to make a complaint & invite an inspector around without letting the landlord know. Of course, it’s better if the tenants speak to you directly about this first.
REMEMBER: Councils will more than likely than not discuss an issue informally with landlords first before putting in protocols. If you disagree with the ideas there is usually a forum for you to appeal.
