Brent Council is taking significant steps to enhance the regulation of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) within its jurisdiction. Until 10 June 2025, the council is conducting a public consultation to gather feedback on a proposed additional licensing scheme. This initiative aims to ensure that all HMOs, not just those currently under mandatory licensing, meet safety and quality standards. This consultation is a crucial opportunity for landlords, tenants, and other stakeholders to voice their opinions and shape the future of property licensing in Brent.
Current Licensing Framework
Under the existing framework, HMOs in Brent occupied by five or more people are required to have a mandatory license. This regulation is designed to ensure that larger HMOs adhere to safety and management standards, protecting both tenants and the community. However, the previous additional licensing scheme, which extended these requirements to smaller HMOs, ended on 31 January 2025. This has left a regulatory gap that the new proposal aims to address.
Proposed Changes to the Licensing Scheme
The proposed additional licensing scheme is a comprehensive approach to cover all HMOs not included in the mandatory licensing. This includes:
- HMOs occupied by three or four people: These smaller properties often escape the scrutiny of mandatory licensing but can still pose significant safety risks if not properly managed.
- Multi-occupied flats in purpose-built blocks with three or more flats: These properties can present unique challenges in terms of fire safety and maintenance.
- Section 257 HMOs: These are converted flats that do not comply with current building regulations, often leading to safety and habitability concerns.
By expanding the scope of licensing, Brent Council aims to improve living conditions across the borough and ensure that all HMOs are safe and well-managed.
Public Engagement and Feedback
Public engagement is a cornerstone of this consultation process. Brent Council is actively seeking feedback from a wide range of stakeholders, including tenants, landlords, managing agents, residents, business owners, and community organizations. This inclusive approach ensures that the proposed scheme reflects the needs and concerns of the entire community.
To facilitate this, the council has scheduled public meetings on 30 April and 21 May 2025. These meetings provide a platform for direct dialogue between the council and the public, allowing for a thorough discussion of the proposed changes. Additionally, stakeholders can submit their feedback via email at Prslicensing@brent.gov.uk or by phone at 020 8937 2384/2385.
