Decision details

RESOLVED:

That:

1)    the draft Additional HMO Licensing Policy Appendix 1 and associated proposed licence conditions in Appendix 1a, be agreed for consultation;

2)    the draft Fees and Charges Schedule in Appendix 2 be agreed for consultation;

3)    it be noted the consultation period will start at 5pm on 31^st October 2025 and end at midnight on 11^th January 2026;

4)    the Consultation and Engagement Plan for the consultation in Appendix 3, also be noted.

Reasons for decision

The Cabinet Member for Planning, Housing & Growth provided an update on the proposed additional licensing policy for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), seeking Cabinet’s approval to proceed with the public consultation. It was noted that unlicensed HMOs could pose risks to communities and that the Council aimed to gather comprehensive evidence before finalising any policy.

A draft policy had been prepared, outlining proposed conditions and fees, and would be subject to consultation from through to January 2026. The consultation would engage residents, landlords, associations and other stakeholders, with final proposals to be brought back to Cabinet in February 2026. The Cabinet Member emphasised the Council’s commitment to resident safety, stronger communities and effective local leadership.

The Leader of the Council welcomed the update and expressed hope for a successful conclusion.

Cabinet agreed the draft policy, conditions and fees for public consultation.

Alternative options considered and rejected

Cabinet could have decided to do nothing, but this would have failed to meet the Council’s commitments and had no impact on private rented sector issues. Cabinet could have used existing powers, whilst viable, would had not effectively controlled HMO impacts. Additionally, Cabinet could have considered a proposal for a partial licensing policy but noted that concerns on this matter were found across all wards.