Landlords in Woking are being invited to take part in a public consultation on a proposed Additional Licensing Scheme aimed at improving housing conditions in smaller shared homes.
The new scheme would apply to small Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), which are properties shared by three or more individuals from two or more separate households. These tenants typically share communal spaces like kitchens and bathrooms.
At present, only larger HMOs—those with five or more tenants—require a mandatory licence under existing regulations. The proposed changes would extend that requirement to smaller shared properties throughout the borough.
The council has raised concerns about the condition and management of certain smaller HMOs, which often fall below acceptable living standards. They argue that extending licensing is necessary to ensure these homes are safe, well-maintained, and legally compliant.
Another reason behind the proposal is the fear among some tenants to report housing issues. Many renters feel reluctant to raise concerns about poor conditions due to the risk of retaliatory eviction or harassment from landlords.
By bringing more properties under regulatory oversight, the council believes it can better support both tenants and responsible landlords. Licensing would provide a framework for maintaining housing standards across all HMOs, regardless of size.
If implemented, the scheme would serve multiple purposes. Firstly, it would help ensure that small shared rental properties are safe to live in and meet defined standards of hygiene, space, and repair.
It would also offer tenants greater protection against overcrowding, unfair treatment, and illegal eviction practices. These problems, while not universal, continue to affect vulnerable renters across the private housing sector.
Landlords would benefit as well. The council plans to provide clearer guidance and support to help property owners understand their responsibilities and meet licensing requirements without unnecessary burden.
This approach is expected to reduce tenant turnover, leading to longer-term tenancies, more stable communities, and fewer disputes between renters and property owners.
Importantly, the council would gain new powers to conduct proactive inspections. This means officers could identify and address potential problems early—before they escalate into serious hazards.
A spokesperson for the council said that while many landlords already maintain good standards, there are still shared properties in the borough that do not meet basic living requirements.
They stated that tenants deserve to live in accommodation that is not only safe and secure but also managed in a professional and respectful manner.
According to the council, the proposed licensing system would allow them to take a more preventative approach rather than acting only after complaints have been made.
They emphasised that community feedback is essential in shaping the future of the private rental sector in Woking. As such, residents, tenants, landlords, and property managers are all encouraged to participate in the consultation process.
The council believes that this licensing scheme could become a vital step towards building safer, healthier, and more equitable housing for everyone in the borough.
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