Landlord Licensing Scheme in Nottingham Awarded Green Light

A controversial new selective licensing initiative by Nottingham City Council has been granted approval by Housing Secretary Michael Gove.

Scheduled for launch on 1st December, this scheme will necessitate landlords to secure a license before renting out properties, aiming to enhance the quality of accommodations and their management for tenants.

The primary objective of the initiative is to shield tenants from bad landlords, while also ensuring they have a clearer comprehension of "what is expected of their landlord in terms of the maintenance, safety and management of their home."

The forthcoming regulations are poised to impact around 30,000 privately rented properties spanning most districts of Nottingham. The council has strongly recommended that all private landlords initiate license applications after 1st September. Notably, they have cautioned that failing to comply may lead to fines reaching £30,000 or even legal prosecution.

Furthermore, the council has alerted that not adhering to the licensing requirement might empower tenants to approach a tribunal to retrieve up to 12 months' worth of rent.

Councillor Jay Hayes, responsible for housing matters in the city council, emphasised, "People in Nottingham have a right to expect a decent and safe standard of private rented accommodation, which is well managed and maintained.

"Having a licence will allow landlords to demonstrate that they provide decent-quality accommodation for tenants, and we will work with landlords to support them to achieve the licence conditions. We believe the scheme will improve the reputation of private landlords, as well as Nottingham's reputation for providing quality housing.

"The scheme will be introduced in areas of Nottingham where the council has gathered evidence of "poorer property conditions".

Councillor Hayes added: "The scheme is a major step forward in improving living standards for many Nottingham residents. The cost of licensing will be reduced for landlords who have Nottingham Rental Standard Accreditation via DASH or Unipol."