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Durham County Council has imposed over £1 million in fines on landlords who failed to meet property standards under its selective licensing scheme. This initiative, launched in 2022, aims to regulate landlords in areas with low housing demand and high levels of anti-social behaviour. The scheme has issued 14,520 licenses and taken significant enforcement actions to ensure compliance.
Key Details of the Selective Licensing Scheme
The selective licensing scheme in County Durham was introduced to address issues in specific areas, including East Durham’s former mining villages, Bishop Auckland, and various towns in North Durham. Since its inception, the council has conducted five prosecutions and issued 95 improvement notices for property disrepair. These actions highlight the council’s commitment to maintaining property standards and ensuring tenant safety.
Fines and Enforcement Actions
The fines, totalling over £1 million, reflect the council’s stringent approach to non-compliance. Landlords who fail to meet the required property standards face civil penalties, which serve as a deterrent and encourage adherence to regulations. The council’s enforcement actions, including prosecutions and improvement notices, demonstrate a proactive stance in addressing property disrepair and ensuring landlords fulfil their obligations.
Impact on Communities
The selective licensing scheme has had a notable impact on the communities it covers. Areas with low housing demand and high levels of anti-social behaviour have seen improvements since the scheme’s implementation. Incidents linked to properties, such as fighting, drug-related issues, and loud parties, have decreased, contributing to a safer and more stable environment for residents.
Addressing Anti-Social Behaviour
One of the primary goals of the selective licensing scheme is to reduce anti-social behaviour in affected areas. By holding landlords accountable for the behaviour of their tenants, the council aims to create a more harmonious living environment. The decrease in anti-social behaviour incidents over the past two years indicates the scheme’s effectiveness in achieving this objective.
Health and Safety Concerns
Ensuring tenant safety is a critical aspect of the selective licensing scheme. Some properties in the affected areas have serious issues, such as damp, mould, and structural instability, posing significant health risks to tenants. The council’s enforcement actions, including improvement notices, aim to address these issues promptly and ensure that properties meet the required standards.
Implications for Tenant Safety
The presence of damp, mould, and structural instability in rental properties can have severe implications for tenant health and safety. These conditions can lead to respiratory problems, allergies, and other health issues. By enforcing property standards and addressing disrepair, the council helps protect tenants from these risks and promotes a healthier living environment.
Conclusion
The selective licensing scheme in County Durham has proven effective in improving property standards and reducing anti-social behaviour in targeted areas. With over £1 million in fines issued and significant enforcement actions taken, the council has demonstrated its commitment to maintaining high standards and ensuring tenant safety. As the scheme undergoes a full review later this year, landlords and letting agents must stay informed and compliant with evolving regulations.
For landlords and agents looking to stay compliant, Kamma’s property licence checker makes it easy to check if your property needs a licence. Staying compliant with ever-changing property licensing rules is crucial for landlords and letting agents. Explore Kamma’s Property Licensing guides for detailed insights on your region’s requirements.
