From 6th April, all landlords in Barking and Dagenham must obtain a licence for their properties under a newly introduced borough-wide scheme. The initiative was made possible by powers granted through the English Devolution White Paper, which took effect on 23rd December, removing the need for approval from the Housing Secretary. The scheme, replacing a previous initiative that ended last summer, will cost landlords £950 per property. However, discounted fees ranging from £200 to £250 will be available for landlords who demonstrate best practices following property inspections…

Additional Licensing and a Push for Higher Standards

Alongside the selective licensing scheme, a new additional licensing requirement for smaller Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) has also been introduced. These licences, applicable to properties housing three or four occupants, come at a cost of £1,400. The goal is to address challenges in the borough’s growing private rental sector (PRS), which now accounts for nearly a third of all local housing.

The council reports significant progress under previous schemes, with over 8,000 property inspections conducted and hazards identified in more than half of the homes inspected. Enforcement measures have improved housing standards and reduced poor management practices.

Councillor Syed Ghani, cabinet member for enforcement and community safety, said the new scheme is “an important tool” for ensuring landlords provide quality homes while tackling unscrupulous behaviour. He added: “I’m really pleased that the scheme has been approved for the whole borough, and I’m encouraged that so many residents expressed their support during the consultation.”

A consultation on the new measures revealed strong community backing, with 55% of respondents agreeing or strongly agreeing that all HMOs should require licensing, regardless of size. The council hopes the scheme will continue to improve housing conditions and address issues such as antisocial behaviour and deprivation.

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