Decision - Proposed Additional Licensing Scheme for Houses in Multiple Occupation

That the Housing & New Homes Committee:

(1)            Notes the results of the consultation undertaken in relation to the proposed Additional Licensing Scheme as summarised in this report and detailed in the appendices 1 and 2.

(2)            Designates the 21 wards in the city as subject to additional licensing under S56(1) of the Housing Act 2004 in relation to smaller HMOs of two or more storeys occupied by three or more people, other than those that are HMOs by virtue of Section 257 of the Housing Act 2004.  Such designation to take effect from 1 March 2018 and last for five years, and revokes the existing City Centre designation with effect from 1 March 2018. 

(3)            Agrees the fee structure for the HMO licensing schemes as set out in paragraph 3.30. This will apply to the existing Mandatory HMO and City Centre additional  licensing schemes from 1 January 2018 and if approved the new scheme from 1 March 2018. 

(4)            Agrees the HMO licensing scheme conditions and standards attached at Appendix 3. This will apply to the existing Mandatory HMO and City Centre Additional licensing schemes from 1 January 2018 and if approved the new scheme from 1 March 2018. 

(5)      Authorises the Executive Director Neighbourhoods, Communities and Housing to take such steps as are required following the designation and revocation referred to in 2.2 above.

(6)      That officers will explore appropriate concessions on licence fees for participating landlords, should such a good landlord scheme be launched in the city.