Selective Licensing Scheme I The Property Fox Leicester
Posted on 17th October 2022
The new selective licensing scheme in Leicester is designed to tackle "ongoing issues" within the private rented sector.
Landlords in certain areas of the city are being targeted by the scheme, which requires them to get licenses for their properties.
There are discounts available for landlords with multiple properties, as well as for properties which meet other criteria, such as having a good energy rating. The scheme is due to run for 5 years.
By getting a license, landlords are able to show that they are operating their rental properties in a responsible manner.
This will help to improve the overall standard of the private rented sector in Leicester, and make it a better place to live for everyone.
If you're a landlord in one of the targeted areas, make sure you get your license as soon as possible to avoid any penalties.
And if you're thinking of letting a property in Leicester, check out the selective licensing scheme requirements to see if you'll need a license. Landlords who comply with the scheme will help to improve the private rented sector in Leicester, making it a better place to live for everyone.
The concerns that landlords and landlord groups have around the scheme are that it is a way for local councils to raise revenue and that it unfairly targets landlords.
There is also the worry that it will push up rents, as landlords pass on the cost of the license to tenants.
However, the council has said that the income from the licenses will be used to improve conditions in the private rented sector, and that they are not looking to make a profit from the scheme.
Only time will tell if the scheme is successful in tackling the issues it is designed to address, but it is a step in the right direction for improving the private rented sector in Leicester.
The areas being targeted for the selective licensing are typically located close to the city centre.
If applying for the licence after the 10th of April 2025, a penalty fee of £200 will be added to the full licence fee, which is also the date when all possible discounts will be removed.
However, it is still advised that you apply as soon as possible to avoid any penalties.
If you need help with your application, there are plenty of support services available from the council.
The information that is required to process an application may well catch some landlords out, particularly those that have been renting out their properties privately for a number of years, as you will need the following documents to make an application:
-Copy of current gas safety certificate (if applicable)
-Proof of a buy to let mortgage or statement of ownership
-Fire safety risk assessment, including fire alarm test certificate and emergency lighting test certificate
-Copy of any tenancy agreements (for current tenants)
-Energy performance certificate (EPC)
-Information about any person(s) with interest in the property
-Floor plan
-Satisfactory EICR.
Should you require any assistance or further information, please do not hesitate to contact the council:
Leicester City Council
Private Sector Housing Team
selectivelicensing@leicester.gov.uk
0116 454 1004
Alternatively, for an initial chat and some advice relating to the scheme, the team at The Property Fox can help.
We are experienced property management experts, and can give you tailored advice on how to comply with the scheme requirements.
Give us a call today on 0116 3409989.
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