New HMO Licensing Scheme Introduced to Raise Standards in Enfield
In Enfield, the council now plans a new HMO Licensing Scheme. The borough ends the old, wider scheme. This change joins small HMOs for the first time. The law makes shared homes safe, well-run, and up to set standards. It cuts overcrowding and fights antisocial acts.
Improving Property Standards in Enfield
Councillor Susan Erbil leads this push. She is Cabinet Member for Planning and Regulatory Services. She sees a deep housing shortage in Enfield. Many families now live in HMOs. She shares proof that many homes lack basic safety. She adds that many houses hold serious risks.
HMOs bring specific risks when management is weak. The council plans steps that cut these risks and keep tenants and the community safe.
Covering Smaller HMOs
The new plan now covers small HMOs. These are homes with three or four people from different households sharing a space. Earlier rules focused on large HMOs. That gap let small homes fall out of the rules. The update now brings these homes under safety checks.
Since the earlier scheme started in September 2020, the council has seen many changes. Over 1,200 HMO license requests came in. More than 1,100 licenses were given. During checks, staff found that 70% of homes needed work to meet safety and housing rules. Problems with fire, electrical safety, damp areas, and overcrowding were common.
Cracking Down on Poor Management
To show the old scheme’s effect, the council sent more than 350 legal letters. They took action against 13 landlords who broke rules on licensing and housing. Fines followed poor property management.
Councillor Erbil sums up the plan by saying, "This new plan must give families safe, decent homes. We expect a big jump in home safety and living standards."
Conclusion
As the new HMO Licensing Scheme starts in Enfield, the goal stays on better tenant safety and quality homes. The rules hold landlords to strict limits and mean more safe homes for people. With these steps, tenants and the community gain from better conditions and tighter housing rules.
Sources:
- Enfield Council Press Releases – Enfield Council
- UK Government on Housing in Multiple Occupation – Gov.uk
- The Guardian – The Guardian Housing News
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