Additional HMO & Selective Licensing Consultation
Overview
The Private Rented Sector (PRS) makes up 36% of the borough’s housing market. With instances of poor conditions across the PRS, the council is committed to improving the condition and quality of properties in the rental market. We believe this will create a fair environment for both tenants and responsible landlords, targeting rogue operators and those letting unsuitable properties, driving up standards to the benefit of all.
In order to build on the successes of the current mandatory Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) licensing scheme and widen the range of properties that will be eligible for licensing, the council is proposing to introduce two further property licensing schemes.
We want to hear your views on our proposals to introduce a selective licensing scheme within key wards and an additional HMO licensing scheme across the whole of Wandsworth.
What is a Selective Licensing Scheme?
A selective licensing scheme is when the whole or part(s) of a borough are subject to a designation under the Housing Act 2004. The designation makes it compulsory for all properties that are rented to single households (e.g., a family) or two unrelated sharers (e.g. two friends living together) to hold a licence before it can be legally let to tenants.
What is an additional HMO Licensing Scheme?
An additional HMO licensing scheme is when the whole or part(s) of a borough are subject to a designation under the Housing Act 2004. The designation makes it compulsory for all shared houses that are rented to three or more unrelated households, sharing amenities such as cooking and/or washing facilities and not covered by mandatory national HMO licensing to hold a licence before it can be legally let to tenants.
A selective licensing scheme is proposed for all privately rented homes (excluding HMOs) within seven wards to address the prevalence of poor housing conditions. This would be introduced in two phases from Spring 2025.
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Phase 1 Furzedown South Balham Tooting Bec Tooting Broadway |
Phase 2 East Putney West Putney Northcote |
If the scheme is approved, all properties in the designated areas that are rented to a single household (e.g. a family) or two unrelated sharers (e.g. two friends living together) will need to have a licence to be legally let.
We are also proposing to introduce additional HMO licensing in all wards of the borough. This would apply to small, shared houses that do not fall under the national mandatory HMO licensing scheme and will help to drive up standards, ensuring safer and better managed HMO accommodation.
Have your say
We want to hear the views of all residents, tenants, landlords, managing agents, organisations and businesses or from anyone with an interest in the private rented sector in Wandsworth.
Please read the proposed consultation supporting document here and give us your feedback using the Online Survey link below.
If you need to request a paper questionnaire or any other format, please email consult@wandsworth.gov.uk or call 020 8454 3025. Paper copies can also be collected in person at our libraries across the borough.
You can also share your views by attending an online public meeting on either of the dates below. Spaces will be limited, so please ensure you register early to reserve your place. To register, click on the link(s) below.
Further information
If you have any queries or require help in sharing your views with us, please email consult@wandsworth.gov.uk
What happens next
Your views will be taken into consideration and changes made, if necessary to the final proposals. The final proposals will be submitted to the council’s cabinet for consideration in Spring 2025.
Give Us Your Views
Areas
- All Areas
Audiences
- Open to all
Interests
- Wandsworth Borough
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