Croydon introduces licensing plans to improve private rentals, protect tenants, and tackle unsafe housing.
Selective licensing needs landlords to get a licence to rent properties in some areas. The plan seeks higher housing quality and safety. It also tackles bad property management and addressing anti-social behavior.
Licensing helps councils monitor rentals and sets standards for landlords. The council can act against those who fail to meet these standards. This offers tenants better protection, as some Croydon rentals have serious problems.
Jason Perry said the council will protect tenant rights. They also plan to hold bad landlords responsible.
Problems include damp and mould, fire hazards, and structural issues. These issues risk tenant health and safety.
Mayor Perry said many live in nice homes, but some face very unsafe rentals.
The government changed regulations on December 23, making starting these schemes simpler. Perry feels they must act quickly, as delaying means waiting until March.
The plan is part of the Housing Strategy for 2024-2029, and the council will introduce it quickly.
The council talked to residents and landlords. They will keep consulting as they build the plan. A final version goes back to the Cabinet before the full introduction.
Other areas have used licensing well. Newham adopted a plan in 2013, and people praised it for fixing poor housing. Merton seized property from bad landlords in 2023.
Perry said they will stop people from living in unsafe rentals. These rentals often lead to anti-social behavior.