Property Licensing Guide for Northumberland
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.
Northumberland Property Licensing Schemes
Got questions about licensing schemes in Northumberland? We’re here to help. This free guide will provide you with the key details regarding what licensing requirements are necessary in Northumberland 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 Northumberland?
Mandatory licensing in Northumberland
Mandatory licensing is required in Northumberland 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 Northumberland?
Additional licensing requires that all privately rented properties with three or more people from two or more households obtain a licence within the area.
There are currently no active additional licensing schemes in Northumberland
Do I need a selective licence in Northumberland?
Selective licensing requires that all privately rented properties within an area agreed by the council requires licensing, regardless of the number of people or households formed.
Northumberland council has one upcoming selective licensing scheme. The scheme will launch on 14/10/2024 and run until 13/10/2029. The selective scheme covers the Croft ward area of Blyth
How do I apply for a licence?
You can apply for licensing through Northumberland Council here. For Kamma users, we offer a licence application service for Northumberland. Get in touch with us here to find out more.
How much does a license cost?
Mandatory fee: £525 with additional £105 per extra unit
Selective fee: £650 for non accredited landlords, £495 for accredited landlords
These fees are subject to change and accurate as of July 2024
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What happens if I don't get a licence in Northumberland?
Ignoring the law could result in prosecution by Northumberland 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.
Frequently asked questions:
Is Northumberland council planning on introducing any new licensing schemes?
Yes, Northumberland is introducing a selective licensing scheme in Blyth, launching in October 2024.
What are the property standards to obtain a selective licence in Northumberland?
Essential requirements include installing smoke alarms on every storey with living accommodation and carbon monoxide alarms in rooms with solid fuel or gas appliances. Kitchens must have adequate storage, preparation surfaces, and proper ventilation. Bedrooms should not be overcrowded, and the property must be free from excessive draughts with suitable heating systems.
Annual gas safety checks and five-yearly electrical system inspections are mandatory. Additionally, all provided furniture must comply with fire safety regulations. Properties should be secure, with proper locks on doors and windows, and landlords must provide tenants with information on waste management and condensation prevention. If a property doesn’t meet these standards, a schedule of works will be created to outline necessary improvements and compliance timelines.
What are the management standards to obtain a selective licence in Northumberland?
All property details must be accurately represented to prospective tenants, who should also be allowed to view the property before signing any agreements. Robust referencing is required to reduce anti-social behaviour, and all tenants must receive a valid written tenancy agreement detailing rent, due dates, and conditions of occupancy.
Landlords must ensure that tenancy deposits are reasonable, protected by government schemes within 30 days, and that tenants receive the ‘How to Rent’ guide at the start of each tenancy. They should also provide an accurate inventory and all necessary keys and metre readings on the first day of tenancy. During the tenancy, landlords are expected to maintain clear communication, address rent issues promptly, and handle tenancy disputes fairly.
Regular property inspections are essential, with landlords required to respond promptly to repair needs and maintain the property’s condition. Waste management protocols must be followed, ensuring tenants have the appropriate bins and information on waste collection. Landlords must also ensure the property’s water, electricity, and gas supplies are properly maintained and that fire and carbon monoxide safety measures are in place. At the end of the tenancy, landlords should serve correct notices, conduct pre-end visits, and manage deposit returns in line with regulations.
About Northumberland
Northumberland is a historic county and unitary authority in northeastern England, known as England’s northernmost county. It borders Scotland to the north, the North Sea to the east, Cumbria to the west, and Durham to the south. While Newcastle was historically the county town, Morpeth now serves as the administrative centre. In 2009, Northumberland transitioned into a unitary authority, consolidating its six former administrative entities: Alnwick, Tynedale, Wansbeck, Berwick-upon-Tweed, Blyth Valley, and Castle Morpeth. The historic county of Northumberland encompasses the entire unitary authority area, including the metropolitan boroughs of Newcastle upon Tyne and North Tyneside within Tyne and Wear.