The Additional Licensing HMO scheme in Bath and North East Somerset is set to conclude on New Year’s Eve. This scheme encompassed approximately 1,280 properties, including 823 HMOs that were previously unlicensed.
According to the council, since its introduction in 2018, the scheme has led to significant improvements in areas such as fire safety, heating, security, space, and amenities, including 293 upgrades to fire alarm systems.
Additionally, the scheme has contributed to increased awareness of safety and amenities standards for shared housing and has improved the council’s knowledge regarding the location and ownership of HMOs in Bath.
All existing Additional HMO licenses are set to expire on December 31, prompting the council to assess evidence for potential future schemes.
Councillor Matt McCabe, Bath council cabinet member for Built Environment and Sustainable Development, noted that the Additional Licensing Scheme has achieved its goals of enhancing standards and tenant safety by ensuring proper property management. It has also played a role in mitigating the negative impact of subpar HMOs on the community.
However, as the current licenses approach expiration, the council will conduct thorough reviews of available evidence in the coming months to determine whether a new scheme is necessary.
“I want to clarify that the Mandatory HMO licensing, established under the Housing Act 2004, remains in effect in Bath and North East Somerset. It pertains to shared houses or flats occupied by five or more individuals from different families who share bathroom, toilet, or kitchen facilities.
Failing to have an HMO license is a criminal offense and is liable on summary conviction to an unlimited fine or a civil penalty of up to £30,000 per offense.”
It is essential to note that while the Additional Licensing scheme concludes, the Mandatory HMO licensing, as established under the Housing Act 2004, remains fully operational in Bath and North East Somerset. This legislation applies to shared houses or flats occupied by five or more individuals from different families who share bathroom, toilet, or kitchen facilities. Failure to obtain the necessary license is a serious matter, constituting a criminal offense that carries the potential for an unlimited fine or a civil penalty of up to £30,000 per offense. This stringent approach underscores the significance of complying with licensing requirements to ensure the well-being and safety of tenants in shared housing arrangements.
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