Proposal for property licensing schemes in Bedminster, Brislington West and Horfield

Overview

Bristol City Council is seeking your views on a proposal to introduce additional licensing for houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) and selective licensing for other privately rented properties in some wards of Bristol – Bedminster, Brislington West and Horfield (Additional only).

We have already introduced similar schemes in other areas of Bristol which have been very successful– including the Stapleton Road area, Eastville and St George wards and in 12 wards in central Bristol.

This proposed scheme covers two types of property licensing:

• Additional Licensing will include HMOs – an HMO is a house or flat that is occupied by three or more unrelated people who live together and share some facilities including kitchens or bathrooms
• Selective Licensing will include private rented properties that are occupied by one or two tenants, or a family, but are not HMOs.

The proposal is that:

• Horfield ward is an additional licensing area
• Bedminster is declared a joint additional and selective area
• Brislington West is declared a joint additional and selective area

Private rented accommodation has been identified as more likely to be in poor condition or have lower standards of management than other properties; therefore we are proposing these tighter measures.

The Housing Act 2004 gives local authorities, the power to declare discretionary licensing areas in the city where there are known problems with the condition and management of privately rented accommodation.

If these licensing schemes were established, owners of most privately rented properties in these wards would need to apply for a licence if they want to continue to let their properties. A fee would be charged for each licence and conditions would have to be met. The council would provide support and advice to landlords and agents to help achieve this, and loans can be provided to assist landlords to meet standards.

Before we can set up a scheme we must consult with those who may be affected by the changes including residents, private landlords, agents and local organisations to find out what they think.

Full details of the proposal can be found in the Proposal Booklet.