North Yorkshire Property Licensing Schemes
Got questions about licensing schemes in North Yorkshire? We’re here to help. This free guide will provide you with the key details regarding what licensing requirements are necessary in North Yorkshire 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 North Yorkshire?
Mandatory licensing in North Yorkshire
Mandatory licensing is required in Enfield 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 North Yorkshire?
Additional licensing applies to HMO properties made up of three or more occupants from two or more households in a given area.
North Yorkshire Council do not currently operate any additional licensing schemes
Do I need a selective licence in North Yorkshire?
Selective licensing applies to all privately rented properties in an area designated at the council’s discretion. A selective licence is required in the areas designated for all private properties, regardless of the number of occupants or households formed.
North Yorkshire council currently operates two selective licensing schemes. The selective schemes operating are as follows:
Selective scheme 1 – Covers the ward of Weaponess and Ramill in the Scarborough constituency. The scheme runs from 1st May 2022 until 30th April 2027.
Selective scheme 2 – Covers parts of the Castle, Falsgrave & Stepney, and Northstead wards in the Scarborough constituency. The scheme runs from 1st June 2024 until the 31st May 2029.
How do I apply for a licence?
North Yorkshire Council has an online HMO licensing application process accessible here. For Kamma users, we offer a licence application service for North Yorkshire. Get in touch with us here to find out more.
How much does a license cost?
Mandatory licensing fees in North Yorkshire:
- 5 occupants – £950
- 6 occupants – £1,050
- 7 or more occupants – £1,150
Selective licensing fee: £695 standard fee, with prices increasing based on numbers of households and type of accommodation. Full details can be found here.
These fees are subject to change and are accurate as of 24th July 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
- Instant notification of any licensing changes affecting one of your properties
- Access property licensing experts to manage the licensing application on your behalf
What happens if I don't get a licence in North Yorkshire?
Ignoring the law could result in prosecution by North Yorkshire 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 North Yorkshire
Scarborough’s first selective licensing scheme has led to significant enforcement actions to improve housing standards and landlord compliance. Since its implementation, 543 licenses were issued in the Scarborough North area, covering around 1,200 privately rented properties, which exceeded initial forecasts. Inspections of all licensed properties resulted in the identification and resolution of 808 Category 1 hazards and 5,000 other issues such as general disrepair. Additionally, there were five prosecutions for failing to apply for a licence and one prosecution for breach of licensing conditions, resulting in fines totaling £35,000. In the Scarborough Central area, 506 licenses were issued, covering around 1,100 properties. Inspections here identified and resolved 871 Category 1 hazards and 3,700 other issues. Enforcement actions included four prosecutions for licensing violations and 10 formal enforcement notices
If you’re unsure as to the properties you manage may need a HMO licence in North Yorkshire, feel free to use our North Yorkshire property licence checker to receive a free licensing report.
Frequently asked questions:
Is North Yorkshire council planning on introducing any new licensing schemes?
No, North Yorkshire council is not currently consulting or planning to introduce any new licensing schemes
Why was selective licensing introduced in Scarborough?
Scarborough has introduced a selective licensing scheme to address issues in the private rented sector, particularly in areas with high concentrations of privately rented properties. The primary reasons include poor property conditions, high levels of deprivation, and the presence of antisocial behaviour. By implementing selective licensing, Scarborough aims to improve property conditions and management standards, contributing to the health and wellbeing of tenants.
What do I need to know when applying for a HMO licence in North Yorkshire?
Agents and landlords in North Yorkshire need to understand several key points to apply for an HMO licence. The application process requires detailed information about the property, including the number of storeys, rooms, and amenities, as well as a floor plan. Applicants must demonstrate their competency through proper property management procedures and provide various safety certificates, including gas and electrical safety. Discounts are available for members of accredited landlord schemes and properties with an EPC rating of band C or above. Regular compliance inspections are conducted to ensure standards are maintained .
About North Yorkshire
North Yorkshire, located in northern England, is part of the historic county of Yorkshire and comprises seven districts: Craven, Hambleton, Richmondshire, Ryedale, Selby, and the boroughs of Harrogate and Scarborough. The county seat is in Northallerton. The geographic county also includes the unitary authorities of Middlesbrough, Redcar and Cleveland, York, and part of Stockton-on-Tees south of the River Tees. North Yorkshire features the Pennines in the west, reaching elevations over 2,200 feet, and the North York Moors and Cleveland Hills in the east, with the Vale of York’s lowlands in between. The dramatic escarpment of the Cleveland Hills leads to the North Sea coast and the Tees valley.
