Stockton-on-tees Property Licensing Schemes
Got questions about licensing schemes in Stockton-on-tees? We’re here to help. This free guide will provide you with the key details regarding what licensing requirements are necessary in Stockton-on-tees 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 Stockton-on-tees?
Mandatory licensing in Stockton-on-tees
Mandatory licensing is required in Stockton-on-tees 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 Stockton-on-tees?
Additional licensing requires that all privately rented properties with three or more people from two or more households obtain a licence within the area.
Stockton-on-tees does not currently operate an additional licensing scheme
Do I need a selective licence in Stockton-on-tees?
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.
Stockton-on-tees council has one upcoming selective licensing scheme, running from 01/11/2024 until 31/10/2029. The scheme covers the wards of Mandale & Victoria, Newtown, Ropner, and Stockton Town Centre
How do I apply for a licence?
You can apply for licensing through Stockton-on-tees Council here. For Kamma users, we offer a licence application service for Stockton-on-tees. Get in touch with us here to find out more.
How much does a license cost?
Mandatory fee: £1250, with an additional £250 per unit
Selective fee: £650
These fees are subject to change and accurate as of 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 Stockton-on-tees?
Ignoring the law could result in prosecution by Stockton-on-tees 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 Stockton-on-tees council planning on introducing any new licensing schemes?
Stockton-on-tees council is launching a new selective licensing scheme in November 2024
Why is Stockton-On-Tees introducing selective licensing?
Stockton-on-Tees is implementing selective licensing to address the challenges posed by poorly managed private rented properties. These areas have a high concentration of private rentals, significantly above the national average, and are experiencing low housing demand, high levels of deprivation, and persistent issues with crime and anti-social behaviour. Selective licensing aims to improve property conditions and management standards, ensuring landlords maintain their properties adequately. The scheme will also help reduce social and economic problems in these areas by enforcing better property standards and management practice
What are the requirements for a landlord to obtain a licence in Stockton-on-tees?
Under the selective licensing scheme in Stockton-on-Tees, proposed licence holders and managers must demonstrate that they are ‘fit and proper persons’ to hold a licence and have satisfactory management arrangements, including provisions for addressing anti-social behaviour. When evaluating whether a landlord or managing agent meets the ‘fit and proper’ criteria, the council will consider their history regarding illegal discrimination, breaches of rental property laws, and any serious criminal offences, such as fraud, violence, drug-related offences, or sexual offences. A licence is valid for a maximum of five years and will expire on the specified date. Failing to apply for a licence can result in prosecution and an unlimited fine. If prosecuted, the individual may no longer be deemed ‘fit and proper’ to hold a licence.
What does licensing aim to target in Stockton-on-tees?
To obtain a property licence in Stockton-on-Tees, landlords of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) must comply with specific conditions due to the higher risk associated with these properties. Overcrowding in rental properties is addressed by requiring landlords to implement remedies wherever possible. If a solution cannot be found, cases are referred to the Council’s Homelessness and Housing Solutions Team to prevent homelessness by finding suitable accommodation.
Empty homes are also a significant concern, as they not only represent a wasted housing resource but can also lead to physical, social, and environmental problems such as deteriorating conditions, rubbish accumulation, vandalism, and antisocial behaviour. The Council’s Empty Homes Delivery Plan outlines the approach to addressing these issues.
Additionally, the Council is vigilant about preventing harassment and illegal evictions by a small number of private landlords or letting agents who do not comply with legal requirements. Mediation is the preferred approach to resolve disputes unless factors such as violence make it unsuitable. In cases where landlords persist in harassment or illegal evictions despite warnings, the Council will take action in accordance with relevant legislation.
About Stockton-on-tees
Stockton-on-Tees is a town and unitary authority in northeastern England, spanning both sides of the River Tees. The northern section is part of County Durham, while the southern section belongs to North Yorkshire. Historically a market town, Stockton gained significance as a port with a stone bridge built in 1769 and the world’s first passenger railway, the Stockton and Darlington Railway, in 1825. Today, it includes both agriculture and industry, with petrochemical plants in Billingham, ironworks in Stockton, and engineering works in Thornaby. Heavy industry has declined, giving way to light industry and services. The area covers 79 square miles with a population of 191,610 in 2011.
