Blackpool Council has issued a reminder to landlords that failing to comply with selective licensing rules could result in prosecution, marking a year since the scheme was first introduced. The licensing programme, which targets the inner areas of the town, currently covers around 9,000 homes, with over half of these properties now registered under the scheme. The council is emphasising that compliance is not optional and is encouraging tenants to play an active role in ensuring their homes meet licensing requirements.
Of the properties that have already registered, approximately 30% meet the council’s “Blackpool Standard” for property management. This standard covers aspects such as property condition, tenant safety, and overall management quality. In addition, around half of landlords have benefited from reduced licensing fees by achieving higher Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings. These incentives are designed to encourage landlords to improve both the energy efficiency and management standards of their properties, providing better quality housing for tenants.
The council is also urging private tenants to check whether their homes are licensed, which helps authorities identify landlords who have not yet registered. A council spokesperson explained: “There are still many people living in poor housing. Tenants can ask their landlords if their home has been licensed and whether it meets the higher Blackpool Standard.” By involving tenants in this process, the council aims to ensure that more landlords comply with the rules and maintain high property standards.
Landlords within the designated area are required to adhere to strict licence conditions covering property management, tenancy administration, fire safety, and measures to prevent anti-social behaviour. The Blackpool Standard sets a benchmark for quality in these areas, ensuring that landlords maintain safe, well-managed homes for their tenants. To further incentivise landlords, properties with an EPC rating of C or above, or those meeting the Blackpool Standard, qualify for discounted licence fees. Currently, 56% of licensed homes have met these criteria and received the reductions.
The council has highlighted that previous selective licensing schemes have had tangible benefits for local communities, including reductions in anti-social behaviour and improvements in neighbourhood standards. The spokesperson added: “We’ve seen previous schemes drive down anti-social behaviour in neighbourhoods, showing the real value of these approaches.” This demonstrates how licensing not only improves property standards but also contributes to safer, more stable communities.
Overall, Blackpool’s selective licensing initiative aims to raise standards in the private rental sector, protect tenants, and ensure that landlords are accountable for the condition and management of their properties. By combining strict compliance rules with incentives for higher standards, the council hopes to foster a rental market that is fair, safe, and well-regulated, benefitting both tenants and the wider community.
The scheme underscores the importance of landlords taking responsibility for their properties and encourages tenants to be proactive in understanding their rights. With licensing now in its second year, the council continues to monitor compliance closely, ensuring that the benefits of improved housing and community standards are maintained across the town.
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