Property Licensing Guide for Newham
This free guide will provide you with the key details regarding what licensing requirements are necessary in this area and how to apply for a licence.
Newham Property Licensing Schemes
Got questions about licensing schemes in Newham? We’re here to help. This free guide will provide you with the key details regarding what licensing requirements are necessary in Newham and how to apply for a licence.
Is manual compliance causing a headache for your agency? At Kamma, we specialise in automating licensing compliance for agents across the UK. If you need any assistance in getting your property portfolio compliant, find out how we can help letting agents here.
What are the licensing requirements for Newham?
Mandatory licensing in Newham
Mandatory licensing is required in Newham if your rented property is occupied by five or more people who form more than one household, including:
- Shared houses and flats occupied by students and young professionals.
- Properties converted into bedsits with some shared facilities.
- Properties converted into a mix of self-contained and non-self-contained accommodation.
Do I need an additional property licence in Newham?
Additional licensing expands the scope of regulation to smaller HMO’s with three or more people which form more than one household.
Newham council currently operates one additional licensing scheme covering all wards except for Royal Victoria and Stratford Olympic Park. The scheme runs from 1st January 2023 until 31st December 2027
Do I need a selective licence in Newham?
Selective licensing requires that all privately rented properties in a given area must obtain a licence, regardless of the number of occupants or households formed.
Newham council currently operates one selective licensing scheme covering all wards except for Royal Victoria and Stratford Olympic Park. The scheme runs from 1st June 2023 until 31st May 2028
How do I apply for a licence?
Newham Council has an online HMO licensing application process accessible here. For Kamma users, we offer a licence application service for Newham. Get in touch with us here to find out more.
How much does a license cost?
Mandatory licensing fee: £1,400 for up to 5 lettings with increasing fees for more occupants. For more details see Newham Council’s fee page.
Selective licensing fee: £750
Additional licensing fee: £1,250
These fees are subject to change and are accurate as of August 2024.
Get instant access to compliance reports across all properties
Kamma uses data-driven technology to help landlords and lettings agents deal with complex licensing compliance effortlessly. Find out how Kamma’s software can keep you compliant across your portfolio.
- Clear actionable advice for every property in your portfolio
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- Access property licensing experts to manage the licensing application on your behalf
What happens if I don't get a licence in Newham?
Ignoring the law could result in prosecution by Newham Council, fines, court costs, and more. Ensure you comply with all regulations to avoid these risks. Fines for non-compliant agents can be up to £30,000 per non-compliant property, as well as rent repayment orders of up to 12 months.
If you’re concerned about unlicensed properties in your portfolio, book a free consultation today with one of our consultants to get a property licensing check here. By keeping your properties in line with your region’s licensing requirements, you can maintain peace of mind that you won’t get burnt by non-compliance.
Licensing enforcement efforts in Newham
Newham council is known for strong enforcement on non-compliant properties. An example of this can be illustrated through their recent landmark victory in a crackdown on a rogue landlord, resulting in fines exceeding £100,000 for multiple breaches of housing regulations. The case involved serious violations, including overcrowding, unsafe living conditions, and failure to obtain the necessary property licences. This outcome underscores the importance of strict compliance with housing laws for both landlords and letting agents.
If you’re unsure as to the properties you manage may need a HMO licence in Newham, feel free to use our Newham property licence checker to receive a free licensing report.
Frequently asked questions:
Is Newham council planning on introducing any new licensing schemes?
As of now, Newham Council is not currently consulting on or planning to introduce any new licensing schemes
Why has additional licensing in Newham been introduced?
Newham Council implemented additional licensing due to a significant rise in private rental properties, which now account for over 50% of all housing in the borough, more than double the national average. The Council’s data revealed that many of these properties suffered from poor conditions, contributing to issues like anti-social behaviour, crime, and deprivation. This licensing effort is essential to ensure landlords comply with legal standards, safeguarding tenants and improving the overall quality of housing in the area.
Why has selective licensing in Newham been introduced?
Newham Council introduced selective licensing to address widespread issues in the private rented sector, where more than half of all housing is privately rented, far above the national average of 19%. Selective licensing targets areas with high levels of deprivation, poor housing conditions, and significant anti-social behaviour linked to rental properties. The Council’s data showed that many of these homes were poorly managed, leading to hazards affecting tenant health and safety. Through selective licensing, Newham aims to ensure landlords maintain high standards, protect vulnerable tenants, and reduce the negative impacts of poorly managed rental properties across the borough.
What are the conditions for obtaining a HMO licence in Newham?
To obtain a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) licence in Newham, landlords must meet strict conditions to ensure the safety and suitability of their properties. Key requirements include adhering to specific room sizes, where a room used by one person over 10 years old must be at least 6.51 square metres, and a room used by two persons over 10 years old must be at least 10.22 square metres. Additionally, the property must have adequate fire safety measures, such as smoke alarms on each floor and a carbon monoxide alarm in rooms with solid fuel appliances. Landlords are also required to maintain the property, address any pest infestations promptly, and ensure that all gas and electrical installations are safe, with valid safety certificates. Regular inspections and tenant management practices, such as providing written tenancy agreements and managing antisocial behaviour, are mandatory.
About Newham
Newham, an inner borough of London, England, lies mostly within the historic county of Essex, bordered by the River Roding and Barking Creek to the east, the River Thames to the south, and the River Lea to the west. Formed in 1965 by merging East Ham, West Ham, North Woolwich, and parts of Barking, Newham encompasses areas such as Canning Town, Stratford, and Forest Gate. Rich in history, Newham’s name traces back to Domesday Book, and its development accelerated in the 19th century with Londoners and European immigrants settling near the Royal Docks, fostering the growth of working-class neighbourhoods like Silvertown and Custom House.