TIGHTER controls could be introduced for rented homes in multiple occupancy in Warwick district.
Warwick District Council’s Cabinet will next week consider a move to include more so-called Homes in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) within the council’s licencing structure.
If given the green light, WDC would then consult with residents, landlords and tenants to get their thoughts.
In the district, there are currently around 700 known unlicenced HMO properties – these are three and four person shared houses, converted flats and bedsit type accommodation that are not subject to the current licencing scheme, which just covers larger HMOs with five or more occupants.
The licencing scheme would require landlords to ensure all HMOs were safe, met minimum space standards, were maintained in good repair and were free from serious hazards.
The growing number of HMOs in the district has long been a cause of concern for many residents, who have complained of issues ranging from rubbish to noise.
WDC’s housing spokesperson Coun Jan Matecki said: “There has been an increased growth of HMOs in Warwick district, and additional licencing is seen as an effective way of bringing those homes not currently licenced under tighter controls and giving tenants the reassurance of higher safety standards.
“The paper I will be bringing forward to Cabinet on December 7 will also deal with many of the issues that residents have that live near to these HMOs. If approved by councillors, the consultation for this licencing scheme will provide the opportunity for tenants, residents and landlords to have their say on the proposed scheme.”
Subject to Cabinet approval, the consultation will run from January 9 to March 20 and will cover areas such as how the scheme might operate, the areas of the district it should cover, and whether to include certain types of converted buildings and purpose-built flats.
For information on the consultation, email [email protected]
