Newham’s Selective Licensing scheme has been approved by the Secretary of State for Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities for an unprecedented third 5-year term, making Newham Council at the forefront of championing renters rights. Coming into force from the 1st June 2023, once the existing scheme ends, the Council’s selective licensing scheme safeguards and improves housing standards for tenants.
The scheme will operate in 22 out of 24 wards in the borough, with two areas excluded which are Stratford Olympic Park and Royal Victoria wards.
Mayor of Newham, Rokhsana Fiaz said:
“I’m delighted that the Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities has granted Newham Council an unprecedented third 5-year term. It’s a testament to our commitment to always champion the interests of our residents and renters rights. No residents in Newham should live in substandard properties managed by unscrupulous landlords”.
Newham Council’s Selective licensing scheme will require compulsory licences for all private rented properties in the designated area to tackle poor property conditions, high levels of deprivation and antisocial behaviour. Protecting private renters and ensuring they live in safe and warm homes is a key component of the scheme and the Council demands that landlords take maximum responsibility for maintaining effective and appropriate management of their properties. Those who fail to comply will face enforcement action. The scheme allows Newham Council to make sure licensed rented homes meet certain conditions, that they are safe, well managed and that the landlord is a ‘fit and proper person.’
The Council will update all current licence holders in the New Year on the date when it will accept early applications to take advantage of the discounts on offer, as well as publicise on the website pages at; LB Newham Property Licensing Consultation.
There is also renewal of the existing additional HMO licensing scheme expiring on 31 December 2022. The Additional Licensing Designation similarly applies to all wards in the London Borough of Newham excluding Royal Victoria and Stratford Olympic Park. The scheme will mean that landlords renting a house in multiple occupation with three to four non-related occupiers, consisting of two or more households will have to obtain a licence from the council, unless exempt.
Further information and to apply for an Additional HMO Licence at LB Newham Property Licensing Consultation