The London Borough of Bromley has issued a stark warning to landlords regarding compliance with licensing and planning legislation for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), following recent enforcement action. This action underscores the critical importance of adhering to regulations designed to protect tenants and ensure privately rented homes are safe and well-managed.
Licensing requirements are crucial for ensuring properties are suitably managed and maintained, offering vital protections for tenants, particularly concerning safety. Bromley operates a mandatory HMO licensing scheme, which generally applies where a property is occupied by five or more people from more than one household who share facilities such as kitchens or bathrooms.
In a significant case, a landlord was penalised with a £27,500 financial penalty for operating a licensable HMO in Bolton Gardens, Bromley without the necessary licence. An appeal against this penalty was subsequently struck out, and the council is now in the process of recovering the funds.
Furthermore, the council has already utilised its planning powers, implementing an Article 4 direction in 2022 that requires planning permission for all proposed HMOs. Where an HMO is permitted, mandatory licensing then governs the minimum standards for larger HMOs.
“"Everyone deserves to live in safe, well-managed accommodation. Licensing requirements and housing standards are there to help protect tenants and ensure rented properties are properly maintained. By taking action where standards fall short, we are helping to protect residents and improve housing conditions across the borough."
“"Landlords face significant financial penalties if they do not comply with the licensing legislation and planning requirements for HMOs. Landlords and managing agents have clear obligations, and where breaches are identified, we will not hesitate to use the enforcement powers available to us. This action sends a clear message that non-compliance will not be tolerated."
Tenants can check whether a property holds an HMO licence using the council's public licence register. Those living in an unlicensed HMO may also be eligible to apply for a Rent Repayment Order to recover up to two years' rent, depending on the circumstances. Further information on HMO licensing and landlord responsibilities is available on the council website. Residents concerned about housing conditions in privately rented accommodation are encouraged to report concerns via the council website.
