Skip navigation

Gloucestershire Business News

Landlords warned of £20,000 cost for failing to have the right licence

Landlords of rental properties are being reminded that a change in law means they need to take action to avoid fines of up to £20,000.

Gloucester City Council are reminding landlords or managers of rental properties that are let to five or more people from more than one family, that they will need to obtain a licence.

Since October 2018 all properties of that type are classed as a House of Multiple Occupancy (HMO) and a licence is needed to ensure properties are safe and suitable for the number of occupuants.

Landlords will need to install and maintain smoke alarms, ensure the gas safety certificate is updated every year, and provide electrical safety certificates and fire installation, maintenance or testing records when requested.

All landlords and managers who own this type of property are advised to get in contact with the council to get free advice on safety regulations.

Those who haven't licensed their properties could be fined up to £20,000.

The change in the law recognises that multi-occupied accommodation has higher associated risks and needs to meet the legal requirements for space, facilities, and to have fire safety procedures and precautions in place.

Councillor Jennie Watkins said: "We are urging landlords and managers to get in touch with us so we can help them comply with the law, protect their tenants, and make sure they avoid getting a heavy fine.

"We will do what we can to make the transition as easy as possible but the sooner people come to us the easier it will be to make sure they meet the new requirements."

Application forms for HMO licences and guidance on the requirements are available on the Gloucester City Council website and the Private Rented Sector Team can be contacted for free advice.

Gloucester City Council's new licences have been issued since April 1.

New applications and renewals will now receive a five-year licence instead of a three-year licence.

Licence fees have increased by £14 per year but costs to landlords have been minimised by continuing to offer them free advice. A five-year licence will cost £820 in total.

For more information or an application form, visit Gloucester City Council's website at www.gloucester.gov.uk/housing/private-housing/multiple-occupancy-homes, call 01452 396396 or email the Private Rented Sector Team at heretohelp@gloucester.gov.uk

Related Articles

Versarien's revenues halve and losses rise Image

Versarien's revenues halve and losses rise

Forest of Dean-based advanced engineering group Versarien saw its revenues halve last year.

Gloucestershire company launches same-day service Image

Gloucestershire company launches same-day service

Gloucester-based Freemans Event Partners has launched a brand-new around-the-clock foodservice logistics offer.

Gloucester business expands at Elmbridge Court Image

Gloucester business expands at Elmbridge Court

Just three offices are now available for rent at Elmbridge Court, following the latest letting.

Cirencester town centre to deliver improved parking Image

Cirencester town centre to deliver improved parking

Better parking and traffic control improvements for Cirencester residents and businesses.

Copyright 2024 Moose Partnership Ltd. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any content is strictly forbidden without prior permission.