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Manchester City Council has plans to reintroduce a controversial licensing scheme in the Crumpsall area of the city, which would affect around 400 homes in the private sector. The Residential Landlords Association has viewed the consultation documents and it says landlords with properties in the area would have to pay between £500 and £750 per property.
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If the scheme is deemed to be a success, it will be extended to include three other areas of Manchester: Moston, Old Moat and some parts of Rusholme.
Improving Conditions in Rental Properties
Landlords will need to pass several hurdles before they are granted a license. Firstly, they need to prove they are a fit and proper person, which means no criminal convictions for housing related offences. Secondly, properties will have to have up-to-date gas and electric safety certificates, with all appliances tested and in a safe working condition. Each rental property will also need to have a working smoke detector installed.
Manchester City Council is hoping that the introduction of a licensing scheme will improve standards in the private rental sector. There is also a high incidence of anti-social behaviour reported in the area affected by the new landlord licensing scheme, so the council hopes regulating landlords will help to address the problem.
North Somerset Protest Group Successful
Meanwhile, landlords in North Somerset have successfully argued against the introduction of a licensing scheme. A protest group attracted a huge amount of support on social media, which helped to persuade North Somerset Council to rethink their plans.
