Gateshead expands private landlord licensing, targeting zones needing better rental standards; applications begin March 1.
The council will introduce licenses. These apply to rented places in some areas.
Birtley, Chopwell, and High Fell need licenses by June 1. More areas get them October 1. Central Gateshead, Felling, and Swalwell will need them then. These areas need help the most.
Landlords must get licenses. Applications start March 1. Not applying can mean fines or prosecution. A standard license costs £850. HMO licenses cost £976.30.
The plan helps tenants with mental health, providing access to support services. They also hope to reduce crime.
Licenses also focus on conditions involving electrical and energy safety. Property and waste management are relevant too.
Gateshead has used similar plans since 2007. Over 1,300 licenses occurred in 2018. The licenses help landlords improve their work, so properties should stay well-maintained.
A council member spoke about the new licensing. Many Gateshead landlords provide good housing while some exploit tenants and provide poor conditions, even illegally evicting them.
The council helps landlords improve properties, so they provide schedules with timelines.
Licensing helps improve rental standards overall and the council will hold landlords responsible, acting if rules aren’t followed.