Landlords warned to check they are following the rules of managing houses of multiple occupation (HMOs) – or have the consequences.
The warning to those who still not following the new rules was released by Telford & Wrekin Council. It was said, starting from January, the investigation teams will start taking actions.
The Licensing of Houses in Multiple Occupation Order 2018 came into effect on 1 October. From now on, properties occupied by five or more people, forming two or more separate households, will be classified as HMOs and require a licence. Other rules changes about new minimum room sizes apply to properties, were also brought in by the central government.
Landlords who are renewing their licences will need to follow new conditions. “We have given landlords a little extra time to help them get their heads around the new law, complete a DBS check and submit their applications. “We are giving them until the end of the year.
In January, our Rogue Landlord Taskforce will start to investigate and, where they find a property that should have been licensed but wasn’t, action will be taken against the landlord. “Anyone found to be operating and/or managing an HMO can be prosecuted or issued with a fixed penalty notice of up to £30,000.
“This is a final call to landlords to abide by this new law.” – councillor Richard Overton said, the council’s cabinet member for housing and enforcement.