Landlords Must Register Accommodation by 6th July
PR 203
21 June 2006
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Owners of accommodation in the Borough of Great Yarmouth must register their premises with the Council by July 6, or face a fine of up to £20,000 - and repaying rent to their tenants.
Legislation concerning Homes in Multiple Occupancy (HMOs) came into effect on April 6.
It relates to buildings which have shared facilities such as kitchens, bathrooms and toilets - are three storeys tall, have five or more persons living in them (which could include the owner), or are shared by two or more households.
“In response to notices placed in the Press earlier this year we sent out 45 packs to property owners, but to date only two have sent back completed forms,” explained Senior Environmental Health Officer, Barry Holmes.
“It is a criminal offence not to be registered and we need the information to ensure that safety checks in respect to fire escapes are supplied, and that decent facilities are also provided for tenants.
“Not complying could not only lead to a court appearance for the property owner, under the new legislation the tenant can claim back all rent that he or she has paid to an unlicensed landlord.
“So it is in the interest of the people who have received the packs, and other owners which have not yet come to the attention of the Council to respond.
“If any owner has converted their property and are not sure if they fall into the HMO category, they are welcome to call me on 01493 846478 to seek advice – it is far better than facing a fine, or having to repay rent.”
The new HMO licence must be applied for as it replaces the HMO Registration Scheme which has ceased to exist.
The new licence gives tenants the assurance that the premises has a valid gas safety certificate, written proof of the safety of electrical appliances and fire alarms, and that they hold a tenancy agreement or its equivalent.
The application for registration does not have to be cleared by July 6, but the relevant forms must be in the Council’s possession by that date. The licence fee is £325 per property.
The licensing guide and application forms can be obtained here or by contacting Barry Holmes.
A visit to the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister’s site
www.odpm.gov.uk/licensing will give access to a helpful frequently asked questions page.
For further information call Senior Environmental Health Officer Barry Holmes on 01493 846622.
Issued by:
Liz Dann
Press Officer
Great Yarmouth Borough Council
01493 846513