Agents and landlords face big HMO approval changes in London
The new rules are designed to improve living conditions for tenants in homes which they share with people who are not related to them.
Landlords converting a property of any size to rent out as an HMO in seven areas the London Borough of Merton could be required to seek planning permission.
The new rules, approved by the council’s Cabinet, are designed to improve living conditions for tenants in homes which they share with people who are not related to them.
ROGUE
There are more than 29,000 rented properties per capita in Merton – exceeding the national average – and the Council wants to tackle the issue of rogue landlords profiting from badly-managed properties in poor condition.
It first introduced a requirement for planning permission in November last year ahead of a public consultation which asked people their views on both planning permission (known as an Article 4 direction) and council licensing of landlords.
The results of the public consultation showed that over 80% of residents supported the move to require landlords to seek planning permission before converting a home.
SUPPORTIVE
One-third of landlords were also supportive of the direction, although over half were opposed.
The seven wards where the rules are in force are Figge’s Marsh, Graveney; Longthornton; Pollards Hill; Colliers Wood; Cricket Green and Lavender Fields.
We are determined residents have access to well-managed homes in good condition.”
Councillor Andrew Judge, Cabinet Member for Housing and Sustainable Development, says: “We are determined that Merton residents renting in the private sector should have access to well-managed homes in good condition.
“The confirmation of the Article 4 direction we have recommended to full Council will help us prevent inadequate conversions by landlords who are overcrowding and mismanaging homes with no thought for their tenants or neighbours.
“Requiring landlords to gain planning permission before a home is converted is the latest way we are standing up for private renters so they can feel at home here in Merton.”
The results of the consultation on landlord licensing are expected later this year.
