New Licensing Rules for Maidenhead Bedsits and Shared Houses
People who own or manage Maidenhead bedsits or shared houses are reminded of the recently-introduced regulations that mean houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) must be licensed.
To help Maidenhead owners and landlords get to grips with the changes and because some of the information was late arriving in the borough, the council has decided to extend the deadline for applications until October 6 – giving an additional three months after the original July 6 deadline. This means the council will give immunity from prosecution until October 6 – but the message is: Get your licence application in as soon as possible.
The Housing Act 2004 says that properties requiring a licence are three or more storeys high and let as rooms, bedsits and/or flats to five or more people who share a kitchen or bathroom. Anyone who doesn't comply with the law could end up with a fine of up to £20,000. Local authorities and tenants will also be able to claim back rent and housing benefit paid while the property was operated without a licence.
Information packs are available from Maidenhead Royal Borough, aimed at ensuring that everyone living in an HMO has a safe, secure home which does not adversely affect their health and welfare
Gillian Taylor, Maidenhead environmental health manager, said: "The application forms we've received so far have been completed to a high standard, with the help of the guidance notes in the information pack – so landlords' fears that the process would be too complicated have proved unfounded.
"Remember, not having a licence could be a very expensive mistake; you could be fined, your tenants could get back their rent, you might have to repay housing benefit and you could be barred from holding a licence on any property in the future. It makes sense to apply now."
To get an application form and information pack call 01628 683820 or email customer.service@rbwm.gov.uk A five-year licence costs £600 for a five-bedroom property and £25 per extra bedroom.
The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead
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