Decision details

Housing Licensing Schemes - Licence duration

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member - Communities and Housing

Decision status: Awaiting Implementation

Is Key decision?: No

Is subject to call in?: Yes

Purpose:

This report is requesting a technical change to the licensing schemes (non-fundamental).

 

On 6th October 2022 Cabinet approved the re-designation of a selective licensing scheme in the defined area of Bootle and two additional HMO licensing schemes in the defined areas of central Southport and areas of Waterloo/Seaforth/Brighton Le-Sands with a commencement date 1st March 2023.

 

Approval was also granted to authorise the Assistant Director of Place (Economic Growth & Housing), in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing to agree any minor/technical changes to the schemes (non-fundamental changes).

 

Decision:

Decision(s):

 

(1) Certain licences will be issued for a full 5 years, even though the date of expiry will be after the end date of the schemes.

 

(2) Shorter licences can be issued in certain circumstances that include where the property is in a poor state, previous licence conditions have not been met and where the Council has concerns over the competence of the (proposed) licence holder and or (proposed) managing agent.

 

 

Reasons for the Decision(s):

 

(1) Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing is required to authorise minor /technical changes to the licensing schemes. To issue licences for a full 5 years in certain circumstances will provide a more pragmatic approach.

 

(2) Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing is required to authorise minor /technical changes to the licensing schemes. To issue shorter licences in specific circumstances allows for the Housing Standards Team to monitor property conditions/ management more closely where necessary.

 

 

 

Alternative Options Considered and Rejected: (including any Risk Implications)

 

Issue all licences with an end date that is the same date as the expiration of the schemes. This method although not unlawful, is unreasonable for those landlords who are making timely applications and complying with their legal responsibilities.

 

Publication date: 01/06/2023

Date of decision: 01/06/2023

Effective from: 10/06/2023

Accompanying Documents: