On Guy Fawkes Day Tues 5th Nov, MPs debated a proposal to increase landlord licensing schemes’ to rise from 5 to 10 years.

This discussion will take place during the latest committee stage of the government’s Renters Rights Bill in the House of Commons.

An amendment on licensing backed by the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health would increase the maximum duration of discretionary licensing schemes from five to 10 years.

The amendment is supported by Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) and its aim is to increase discretionary licensing schemes maximum duration period from 5 to 10 years.

According to the CIEH licensing allows local authorities by law must be able to inspect PRS properties addressing issues even without recei8ving any tenants’ complaints. The proposed changes in the amendment it believes would make it far easier for  councils to initiate licensing schemes.  

CIEH contends that extending the maximum duration of discretionary licensing schemes for selective licensing and additional schemes for HMOs with fewer than five occupants would help councils to advertise for longer term positions in the housing department and incorporate training for new staff within these schemes.

CIEH aims to address what it describes as a “peculiar disconnect” in the existing legi8slation.The issue lies in the fact that while local authorities can introduce selective licensing schemes they are unable to directly enforce housing condition requirements as part of the  licence conditions.

Mark Elliott, president of the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health, says: “We have been working hard to highlight these issues and are delighted that they will now be discussed by a parliamentary committee.

“The government should grasp this opportunity to make it easier for local authorities to use licensing schemes to improve housing standards.

“We will continue to make the voice of environmental health professionals heard on licensing and other issues during the passage of the Bill through parliament.”

Richard Merrick of PIMS, says “The question is, will selective licensing be good for improving property standards or good for councils short term top up the coffers.

“Sounds like another squeeze - licences are not transferable upon sale and payable usually in advance - at least offer us an annual direct debit.