High profile council to roll out property licensing for first time

Wandsworth, which until recently was the darling of Tory politicians for pioneering Right to Buy, has revealed plans to clamp down on bad landlords and agents.

wandsworth licencing

A council that was once former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher’s favourite local authority after pioneering many of her policies has revealed plans to introduce licensing for private rented sector landlords for the first time.

Wandsworth, which was Conservative-controlled for nearly 45 years until the 2022 local elections after which Labour took control, is to introduce both an £850 selective licensing scheme and a £1,450 additional HMO scheme in the Spring of next year.

The plans, which have now been made public, will see selective scheme covering all privately rented homes within seven wards (Furzedown, South Balham, Tooting Bec and Tooting Broadway) and in East Putney, West Putney and Northcote at a later date.

The private rented sector now makes up 36% of the London borough’s housing sector, giving it one of the highest numbers of private renters in the country.

Complaints

“While many tenants rent without issue, sadly our officers continue to receive complaints from tenants found to be living in substandard and at times dangerous accommodation, with tenants often unsure of where to turn,” says cabinet member for housing, Aydin Dikerdem.

“Some of these are our most vulnerable residents. Our proposals will help us to target rogue operators and those letting unsuitable properties, driving up standards to the benefit of all.

“We are committed to continuing to work positively with responsible landlords, educating those that may not be aware of their responsibilities and driving out the minority who knowingly disregard housing laws.”

Wandsworth is running a consultation on the plans which will until the 14th October. Agents can have their say here.


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