West Northamptonshire Property Licensing Schemes
Got questions about licensing schemes in West Northamptonshire? We’re here to help. This free guide will provide you with the key details regarding what licensing requirements are necessary in West Northamptonshire 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 West Northamptonshire?
Mandatory licensing in West Northamptonshire
Mandatory licensing is required in Haringey 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 West Northamptonshire?
Additional licensing requires that all HMO properties with three or more people forming more than one household require a licence in a given area at the council’s discretion.
West Northamptonshire Council operates one additional licensing scheme in the Northampton area, running from 1st February 2020 until 31st September 2025. Wards affected by the scheme include:
- Abington and Phippsville
- Billing and Rectory Farm
- Boothville and Parklands
- Castle
- Dallington Spencer
- Delapre and Rushmore
- Headlands
- Kingsthorpe North
- Kingsthorpe South
- Moulton
- Riverside Park
- Sixfields
- St. George
- Talavera
West Northamptonshire Council are also consulting on extending the current additional scheme and broadening the scheme to surrounding areas of Northampton. The consultation runs from 30th July 2024 until 7th October 2024. Should the scheme go ahead, the wards affected will be all of the wards listed above, as well as the following wards: Bugbrooke, Duston East, Duston West and St. Crispin, East Hunsbury and Shelfeys
Do I need a selective licence in West Northamptonshire?
Selective licensing requires that all privately rented properties in a given area obtain a licence, regardless of the number of occupants or households. West Northamptonshire council do not currently operate any selective licensing schemes
How do I apply for a licence?
West Northamptonshire Council has an online HMO licensing application process accessible here. For Kamma users, we offer a licence application service for West Northamptonshire. Get in touch with us here to find out more.
How much does a license cost?
£1,295, with an extra £41 charge for any unit over five.
These fees are subject to change and are accurate as of 18th April 2024.
Get instant access to compliance reports across all properties
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What happens if I don't get a licence in West Northamptonshire?
Ignoring the law could result in prosecution by West Northamptonshire 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 West Northamptonshire council planning on introducing any new licensing schemes?
West Northamptonshire council consulted on the extension of their additional licensing scheme in July 2024. We will update this page with further details should the scheme go ahead
Why is West Northamptonshire Council planning to extend their Northampton additional scheme?
West Northamptonshire is consulting on extending its additional licensing scheme for houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) to address issues like poor property conditions and management. Evidence, including complaints about waste, noise, and anti-social behaviour, supports the need for expanded regulation. The proposed scheme aims to improve housing standards and management in areas with small HMOs, covering new developments and areas with identified problems. The council seeks public input to ensure effective implementation of the scheme. More details can be found on their consultation page.
What do I need to apply for a HMO licence in West Northamptonshire Council?
To apply for an HMO (House in Multiple Occupation) licence in West Northamptonshire, you need to provide detailed information about the property, including its address, the number of occupants, and the facilities available. You’ll also need to submit a floor plan, provide a gas safety certificate, and ensure smoke alarms are installed. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate that they are a fit and proper person to manage the property. A fee is required, which varies based on the number of bedrooms.
What are the HMO housing standards for West Northamptonshire Council?
HMO housing conditions in West Northamptonshire Council require that occupancy limits be adhered to, with specific room sizes based on age and number of occupants. Safety measures include mandatory carbon monoxide and smoke alarms, annual gas and electrical safety checks, and maintaining fire safety standards. Landlords must also provide tenants with waste disposal instructions, written terms of occupancy, and ensure all furnishings meet safety regulations. Additionally, they must display management contact details and cooperate with authorities to prevent antisocial behaviour.
About West Northamptonshire
West Northamptonshire is a local government district in England, formed in 2021 as a unitary authority by merging Daventry, Northampton, and South Northamptonshire districts. The council performs both district and county functions. The largest town is Northampton, with other significant towns like Daventry, Brackley, and Towcester. The area features agricultural villages, lakes, woodlands, and historic sites such as Bannaventa and Althorp House. The district was created following financial mismanagement issues with the former county council, leading to the formation of two unitary authorities, including North Northamptonshire.
