Following a public consultation which took place earlier in the year, Councillors will be meeting on Wednesday 9 August to examine the survey results and decide whether to extend the current scheme to households comprising three and four persons as well as tenants living in purpose-built blocks of flats including student accommodation.

Under the current regulations only HMOs with five or more persons living as two or more households are subject to mandatory licensing.

Councillor Paul Wightman, Portfolio Holder for Housing commented:

“There are around 600 HMOs already licensed under ‘mandatory licensing’ in our district and in the region of 800 HMOs which would be required to obtain a license under an ‘additional licensing’ scheme.

"Including more homes under our umbrella would ensure that landlords of HMOs submit detailed information regarding themselves and their properties including important safety documents such as fire alarms, gas and electrical safety certificates.

"If approved, it will also mean that properties are thoroughly inspected by Council Officers before a licence is issued to ensure they meet minimum standards with conditions requiring the landlord to maintain and manage the property effectively.

"This measure can only increase the level of assurance that can be provided to residents who live in these properties and will undoubtedly help to keep people safe.”

Should Cabinet agree to proceed with the additional scheme, further approval will be required by Full Council in the autumn to agree the licence fees. If approved, it will then become a legal requirement to obtain a licence in order to operate any HMO in Warwick District from January 2024.

• 9 August 2023 Cabinet report