PR254

For Immediate Release

20 September 2006

Owners of houses in multiple occupancy (HMOs) have until October 2 to register with Great Yarmouth Borough Council or face the prospect of a fine of up to £20,000 and a criminal record.

It is the responsibility of landlords, or managing agents, of HMOs to apply for a licence under legislation which came into effect on April 6.

A HMO is a building which is three or more storeys tall, has shared amenities such as bathrooms, toilets and cooking facilities, and is occupied by five or more people in two or more households.

Notices and articles about the new legislation featured in the Press earlier this year. Packs were also sent out to property owners known to the Borough Council. But all the packs have not been returned and Council officials are also sure that landlords not known to them have not responded to the call.

“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,” explained Senior Environmental Health Officer, Barry Holmes.

“Not complying could lead to a court appearance for the property owner, a fine of up to £20,000 and a criminal record. Under the new legislation the tenant can claim back all rent that he or she has paid to an unlicensed landlord, and local authorities can also claim back any housing benefit paid.

“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 landlord has converted their property and is 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 must be in the Council’s possession by Monday October 2. The licence fee is £290 per property.

The licensing guide and application forms can be obtained from HMO Enforcement Team, Great Yarmouth Borough Council, Environment and Health, Maltings House, Maltings Lane, Great Yarmouth NR32 0GY, telephone 01493 846478, or email health@great-yarmouth.gov.uk.

Forms can also be downloaded from here.

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