Plans for Landlord Database for HMOs fully underway
The landlord database will store the information of landlords who have failed to comply to HMO regulations.
Lord Bourne, the undersecretary of state for communities and local governments, revealed that an official database of bad landlords and lettings agents will be launched in October 1st 2017.
Despite the launch of the landlord database in October, there will be some leniency for the first six months. This will allow time for landlords to get better informed about their councils HMO licensing and take action to properly upgrade their properties.
Lord Bourne broached the topic during a meeting in the Lords Chamber on the 8th of January.
We now know that the landlord database will contain the information of those;
- found guilty of running a HMO without the necessary licensing
- not complicit in ensuring the maximum safety standards required
- continuing to charge agency fees
The above criteria is all that has been confirmed by the Department of Communities and Local Government. They have stated that they will begin a dedicated consultation period over the coming weeks. During this time the department will properly outline and define which offences will render the landlord or letting agent liable to be listed in the database. The offences are aimed at those who have or manage HMO properties within the private rented sector.
Though initially, the landlord database was to tackle just non-compliant HMOs. However, it seems that by tying in lettings agents who continue to charge fees the government is intent on taking on the entire industry with this database. From agents to one property landlords, the private rental sector is getting some serious governemnt attention.
What will the database mean?
Exactly how the database will affect the landlord or letting agent in unknown. Suggestions however, are that those placed on the database could incur a suspension of up to a year.
HMO services London is following developments closely and will report new findings as and when they arrive.
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