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Middlesbrough landlords face 'selective licensing'

Landlords in an area of Middlesbrough will face tough new licensing checks aimed to improve conditions for local residents.

With effect from today (Monday October 28), Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council has designated the South Bank area of Middlesbrough for selective licensing.

The new licence fee costs £450, but is offering Charter Members who registered before June 30 2013 a discount of £50.

Typically the applications are two-fold. Information to confirm that the rented property conforms to the Housing Act and Health and Safety requirements, with room plans, tenancy information and background information of the landlord to ensure they are a fit and proper person.

Parity Property Management LLP, which has experience of completing selective licence applications on behalf of landlords, say landlords could face major consequences if they don’t register.

“Landlords of privately rented properties within a designated area are required to make a selective licence application or face fines of up to £20,000,” said Matthew Milnes, a partner of the firm.

“There are some specific exemptions, such as houses rented by registered social landlords.

“The application for a selective licence covers the standard of the rented property, the tenancy and also the personal background of the landlord.”

In addition to the licence fee, the Council requires £30 for each fit and proper person check.

Mr Milnes understands that the application will be a paper format opposed to online facilities that have been used elsewhere.

If you are a landlord and would like further information visit www.selective-licensing.co.uk.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Martin Walker .