Landlords in Portsmouth warned about new HMO license changes

Portsmouth City Council is introducing the change from today and the new rule means any HMO which is occupied by 5 or more people needs a license.

The local authority's private sector housing team is considering prosecution action against any landlord who did not proactively apply for a license.

A HMO is a property occupied by three or more people forming more than one household, who share basic amenities such as a kitchen or bathroom.

Councillor Darren Sanders, cabinet member for housing, said: '˜We will look to prosecute or fine any landlord who has not proactively applied.

'˜Fines can be up to £30,000, so it's really not worth the risk. If your property needs a license, come forward and apply now, don't wait to get caught. Contact the team or risk prosecution.'

Landlords who have not applied already are advised to make an application as soon as possible

The authority is also encouraging tenants of any property they believe should be licensed, to contact them if they do not believe their landlord has applied.

For information on how to apply or to contact the private sector housing team visit portsmouth.gov.uk and search 'mandatory licensing'. Alternatively, call (023) 9284 1659.'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹'‹