For the attention of our landlords. Below we have identified an issue regarding Selective and Additional Licensing that we feel all landlords should be aware of, especially as there could be cost implications involved.
You may not be aware, but councils have the power to introduce licensing in selected areas. Their aim is to improve conditions for tenants and the surrounding community. Certain standards and conditions, in particular relating to electrical and fire safety, are required to be met in order for a licence to be granted
Selective Licensing:
Selective licensing requires that, within a designated area, all properties are licensed. Newcastle currently has two areas which have designated selective licencing – Byker Old Town and Allendale South. The Council’s proposed new licensing area will cover the central core of the city where there are high levels of rented properties. There does not seem to be any stipulations on number of occupants so everything from studios upwards could be affected
Additional Licensing:
Currently, all properties occupied by five or more people from two or more households currently require a licence. The Council are proposing to introduce additional licensing throughout the entire city which will require all HMOs occupied by three or more people to be licenced.
In total, around 18,000 properties could be affected.
Newcastle City Council has launched a consultation on these proposals. Our senior property manager, Rob O’Brien, attended this consultation before Christmas but there is another meeting to be held on Monday 14th January at Newcastle City Library, 33 New Bridge St W, Newcastle NE1 8AX from 5pm until 7pm. After a formal presentation, there will be an opportunity for questions. As our landlords, this may be something that you would like to attend. If you are currently living outside of the area, you can still have your say on the proposals via the following link:
https://newcastleplproposal.commonplace.is/overview
The formal consolation process ends on 27th January and all comments must be given before this date.