Landlords in Peterborough are being urged by the city council to check if they need licences ahead of a new regulatory framework around HMOs.
Peterborough City Council launched the additional licensing scheme in January and this is set to come into effect on 26th April.
From that date, properties in the city with three or more occupants who are not related will need to be licensed. Over 2,000 properties will be covered under this scheme.
Previously, only HMOs with five or more people were required to be licensed by the council.
Landlords with unlicensed HMO properties, or who fail to adhere to the conditions of a licence, face civil penalties or up to £30,000 or unlimited fines in the courts.
Landlords in breach could also be ordered to repay up to a year of rent, with the council potentially able to take over the property.
The new licensing scheme will be in effect until 25th January 2031. A five-year licence will cost landlords £1,100.
Licence conditions include requiring landlords to ensure their HMOs are managed appropriately.
"It is vitally important that any property owners affected by the scheme apply for licences as soon as possible to avoid enforcement action,” said councillor Christian Hogg, cabinet member for housing and regulatory services at Peterborough City Council.
“If you are unsure if your property is affected or want advice or support with your application, please contact our Housing Standards team who will be happy to assist you."
