Knowsley’s Cabinet has approved a new licensing policy which affects houses in multiple occupation within the borough.
The new Houses in Multiple Occupation Licensing Policy is intended to protect the health, safety and welfare of tenants by ensuring that accommodation is adequate and fit for purpose.
Houses in multiple occupation are properties which are rented out by at least three people who are not of the same household and share facilities (such as bathrooms and kitchens). They often provide cheaper accommodation for vulnerable members of society whose housing options are limited.
The Council has a duty under Section 55 of the Housing Act 2004 to establish a regime for the licensing of those houses in multiple occupation which fall within the definition in the Act (i.e. a property which is occupied by five or more persons comprising two or more households).
In September last year the Council launched a 12-week public consultation to seek the views of those affected by the proposed policy.
To adhere to the new policy, licence holders of houses in multiple occupation must comply with mandatory conditions, such as the supply of safe electrical appliances; the installation of fire alarms and smoke detectors; and the production of valid gas certificates must be produced on request.
The Policy is consistent with the aims of the Council’s Housing Enforcement Policy in protecting the health, safety and wellbeing of tenants and improving the condition of private sector housing stock in the Borough.
It will also contribute to the aims of the Knowsley 2030 Strategy of improving the quality of housing provision and reducing the number of poor-quality homes.