Lambeth council in south London is introducing a Selective Licensing Scheme with the  ‘rip off’ cost of almost £1,000 per property.

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The council’s statement says the scheme will be introduced in September for 4 wards with the likelihood (when not if) to be extended to another 19.

The council’s report states the Selective licensing scheme will cost £943 per property and claims it will work in tandem with its policy to make sure Lambeth is “a place we can all call home.”

Around a third of the 144,985 homes in Lambeth are privately rented and the council states that more than 9,466 of these are “predicted” to have a dangerous home hazard.

The council also says it has received 10,000 plus complaints of anti-social behaviour occurrences over three years in private rented homes.

It also reports back that after a 12 week consultation period on its proposals’ responses “suggested that almost two-thirds of residents and local businesses approved of the proposals for introducing licensing in the first four wards – and the 19 earmarked in the second phase.”

Councillor Mahamed Hashi, Cabinet member for Safer Communities, says: “Privately renting is often the only option for residents who can’t access social housing and aren’t able to purchase their own property. This scheme will see more support for vulnerable residents, help reduce overcrowding and improved premises conditions. Ultimately, it will lead to better housing for our residents.

“Whilst most landlords provide good quality, safe accommodation, there are some who take advantage of their tenants or don’t know what their responsibilities are. Licensing will help us crack down on rogue landlords and take decisive action against housing offences.