Residential Landlords Association (RLA)
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Coronavirus: Councils delay introduction of licensing schemes
Several local authorities have delayed the introduction of licensing schemes, during the current coronavirus pandemic.
Earlier this year, Wirral Council confirmed that some areas of Birkenhead and Seacombe would be subject to selective licensing from 1st July 2020.
On 13th May, Wirral Council confirmed that the scheme will now not come into force until 1st October 2020.
Similarly in the London Borough of Islington, two licensing schemes were given approval recently, including a borough-wide additional licensing scheme and a selective licensing scheme covering all private rented homes in the Finsbury Park ward.
According to the London Property Licensing blog, Islington Council has delayed the introduction of these schemes for six months. The NRLA responded to the consultation on the scheme last year.
As will all property licensing schemes, landlords who have a rental property in the designated area will be required to obtain a property licence in order to continue to let their property out lawfully.
Government guidance
In March, the government issued guidance for local authorities, which advised them to pause the introduction of non-mandatory property licensing schemes due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Despite this, some local authorities have pressed ahead with introducing licensing schemes during the pandemic. This includes Coventry Council and the London Borough of Waltham Forest. Some local authorities have also been extending the deadline for licensing consultations such as in County Durham.
Original article link: https://news.rla.org.uk/coronavirus-councils-delay-introduction-of-licensing-schemes/
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