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Latest news and updates from Safer Housing at Nottingham City Council
Urgent news for landlords: the Selective Licensing scheme is now up and running, and we want to ensure you stay informed and compliant.
Firstly, a heartfelt thank you to those proactive landlords who have already submitted their licence applications. Your prompt action is appreciated, and it contributes to the smooth functioning of our community.
Current Application Status: As of now, we've received nearly 7,000 applications, and we're grateful for the positive response. It is also still compulsory for accredited landlords to apply for a licence. However, for those who haven't applied yet, time is of the essence.
Avoid Fee Increases: Act promptly to avoid substantial fee increases. If the Council needs to chase you for your application, you may incur the 'Less Compliant' fee of £1,233. We want to help you sidestep unnecessary costs and ensure a seamless licensing process.
Important Reminders:
- If your licence has expired, or if you're a new landlord, it's imperative to complete the Selective Licence application form promptly.
- Visit Selective Licensing - Nottingham City Council for detailed information and to submit your application.
Smooth Compliance Process: We understand that compliance can sometimes be a daunting process, but rest assured, this update is designed to make it as smooth as possible for you. Your cooperation ensures a positive and harmonious environment for both landlords and tenants.
For any additional information or queries, feel free to reach out to us. We're here to assist you every step of the way.
For more information and to apply visit Selective Licensing - Nottingham City Council
Your commitment to compliance is vital, and we appreciate your cooperation in making our community a better place.
 We're excited to share a breakthrough in our ongoing efforts to make compliance as seamless as possible for our valued landlords. Introducing a comprehensive tutorial video that aims to simplify the Selective Licence Application process.
Navigating through the intricacies of the Selective Licence Application Form can be a daunting task. We've listened to your feedback, and we're thrilled to share this tutorial video, designed to address the difficulties highlighted by landlords like yourself. Our commitment to enhancing accessibility and ease for all landlords remains at the forefront of our efforts.
What to Expect from the Video:
The video provides a step-by-step walkthrough of the Selective Licence Application Form, ensuring clarity. We've specifically addressed common challenges highlighted by landlords, offering solutions and tips to overcome potential hurdles.
The tutorial is crafted to be accessible to all, acknowledging the diverse range of landlords in our community.
We understand the importance of a straightforward licensing process for both landlords and tenants. Our commitment is to be your partner in compliance, and this video is a testament to that dedication.
Watch Now: To access the tutorial video and make your Selective Licence Application experience smoother, simply click here:
Video without Subtitles: https://youtu.be/az8dxjHgVDA
Video with Subtitles: https://youtu.be/CIN1c673dwI
Thank you for your continued partnership. Together, we make our community a better place for everyone!
If you require any further information, please visit our website or email selective.licensing@nottinghamcity.gov.uk and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
 A new scheme of Additional HMO Licensing for Privately Rented Houses was approved at Nottingham City Council’s Executive Board on the 19th September 2023. The new scheme started on the 1st January 2024 and will run for up to five years city wide.
To check whether a property is within the designated area go to: http://geoserver.nottinghamcity.gov.uk/myproperty and enter the relevant postcode.
A public notice and the designation map is displayed in Loxley House on Station Street Nottingham and further detail will be available on our website shortly Additional Licensing - Nottingham City Council
All licences in the current additional designation will remain in force until they expiry, this date is given in your licence document. We are accepting new licence applications from the 1st November 2023 for the 2024 designation. Follow the webpage link above to apply for a licence.
Upon the designation coming into force on the 1st January 2024 any person who operates a licensable HMO without a licence, or allows a licensed HMO to be occupied by more households or persons than authorised by a licence, or a person who breaches a condition of a licence is liable to prosecution and upon summary conviction to an unlimited fine. You can view some of our enforcement interventions here: Investigating Housing Offence - Nottingham City Council
The new HMO fees were also approved and will be introduced from the 1st October 2023 for all HMO applications. The Part A payment is collected as part of the application process and the Part B payment is collected before the final licence is issues. If the licence application is refused the part B payment is not collected.
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Licence Fee
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New From 1st October 2023
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Standard fee
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1st payment (Part A) £670
2nd payment (Part B) £803
Total £1473
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Less compliant fee
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1st payment (part A) £670
2nd payment (Part B) £1311
Total £1981
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Accredited fee
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1st payment (Part A) £670
2nd payment (Part B) £453
Total £1123
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If you require any further information please visit our website pages Additional Licensing - Nottingham City Council and Mandatory Licensing for HMO's - Nottingham City Council or you can email hmo@nottinghamcity.gov.uk and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
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We bring to your attention a crucial update regarding Right to Rent checks that demand your immediate consideration.
Starting from Monday, January 22, 2024, Right to Rent fines will see a significant increase, doubling from their current amount. Landlords must take proactive measures to ensure compliance and avoid potential penalties.
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The revised penalty for failing to carry out the necessary Right to Rent checks will be a substantial £20,000. This substantial increase underscores the importance of staying vigilant and up-to-date with regulatory changes.
Why Right to Rent Checks Matter
Conducting Right to Rent checks is a legal requirement for landlords in the UK. Failure to comply can lead to severe consequences.
Ensuring that your tenants have the legal right to reside in the UK helps mitigate potential risks associated with unlawful tenancies.
What Landlords Should Do:
- Review Your Processes: Take this opportunity to review your current Right to Rent check processes and ensure they align with the latest regulations.
- Document Verification: Keep thorough records of the checks you conduct, including any communications with tenants and copies of relevant documents.
- Stay Informed: Regularly check for updates on Right to Rent regulations to remain informed about any changes that may impact your responsibilities as a landlord
For more detailed information and resources, we recommend visiting the NRLA website, where you can access comprehensive guidance on Right to Rent checks and other important aspects of landlord responsibilities.
Right to Rent fines to hit £20,000 from next week | NRLA
We understand that the ever-changing landscape of regulations can be challenging, but your commitment to compliance is vital.
If you have any questions or need assistance, please feel free to reach out. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
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In light of the current energy cost challenges, it's crucial to address the impact on our student tenants residing in HMOs. Many of them might be facing difficulties in properly heating their homes due to financial constraints, potentially leading to issues like damp and mould.
However, there's a beacon of hope! Both the University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University offer essential support through their student hardship funds.
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Both the University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University offer essential support through their student hardship funds.
Nottingham Trent University's student hardship fund provides extra financial assistance to those in need. You can find more details here: https://www.ntu.ac.uk/studenthub/money-fees-and-funding/extra-money-for-those-who-need-it#ud
Similarly, the University of Nottingham offers support funds tailored to students' needs. Access more information here: https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/studentservices/support/financialsupport/support-funds/index.aspx
By informing our student tenants about these resources, we can play a vital role in ensuring they maintain warmth and comfort in their homes during the colder months, alleviating the stress of high energy bills.
Let's unite in supporting our student community through these challenging times.
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On February 1st, 2024, the government released new guidance aimed at enhancing the safety of e-bikes and e-scooters. This initiative comes as a response to the growing popularity of electric cycles and scooters and aims to improve consumer safety by providing comprehensive information on how to safely purchase, charge, and use these vehicles. |
The guidance, developed after extensive consultation with industry experts, focuses on battery safety for both e-scooters and e-bikes. It emphasises the importance of purchasing these vehicles from reputable sellers and ensuring they meet manufacturing requirements. Additionally, it provides insights into safe storage and charging practices, identifies warning signs for fire risks, and offers guidance on responsible battery disposal.
One crucial reminder highlighted in the guidance is that e-scooters cannot be legally used on roads unless they are part of an official rental trial. This serves to clarify the legal framework surrounding e-scooter usage and promotes adherence to regulations.
In addition, separate guidance has been issued to assist public transport operators in assessing and managing fire risks associated with carrying e-bikes and e-scooters on trains and buses.
As landlords, it's essential to stay informed about these guidelines and encourage tenants who own e-bikes or e-scooters to familiarise themselves with the safety recommendations.
By promoting responsible usage and adherence to safety protocols, we can contribute to creating safer living environments for our tenants and communities
More information here: New guidance to enhance e-bike and e-scooter safety - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
 In the ever-evolving landscape of energy efficiency, we are excited to share insights about the positive impact smart meters can have on both landlords and tenants.
Understanding Energy Usage: Smart meters offer a valuable tool for tenants to comprehend and manage their energy consumption effectively. Recent surveys indicate that nearly 90% of private renters with a smart meter express a willingness to have one again if they were to relocate.
Landlord Perspectives: Encouragingly, seven in ten private landlords are open to the idea of having a smart meter installed, and a quarter have already embraced this energy-efficient technology.
Tenant Decision-Making: It's important to note that the decision to install a smart meter ultimately rests with the billpayer. If your tenant covers the energy bills and the account is in their name, they have the autonomy to opt for a smart meter. Communication is key, so we recommend that tenants inform you before making this change.
Understanding Energy Usage: Smart meters offer a valuable tool for tenants to comprehend and manage their energy consumption effectively. Recent surveys indicate that nearly 90% of private renters with a smart meter express a willingness to have one again if they were to relocate.
Landlord Perspectives: Encouragingly, seven in ten private landlords are open to the idea of having a smart meter installed, and a quarter have already embraced this energy-efficient technology.
Tenant Decision-Making: It's important to note that the decision to install a smart meter ultimately rests with the billpayer. If your tenant covers the energy bills and the account is in their name, they have the autonomy to opt for a smart meter. Communication is key, so we recommend that tenants inform you before making this change.
Permission Guidelines: According to Ofgem, if your tenancy agreement stipulates that your tenant requires your permission, it is advised not to unreasonably withhold consent for this energy-efficient upgrade.
Overcoming Resistance: In cases where tenants may be hesitant, landlords have the option to manage energy bill payments themselves and incorporate it into the monthly rental charges. However, this involves exploring changes to the rental contract in detail.
Open Communication: We strongly advocate open dialogue with your tenants regarding any proposed changes to the property. Your understanding and cooperation can foster a positive environment and contribute to the overall well-being of your rental property.
For more detailed information and resources on smart meters for landlords, we recommend exploring Smart Energy GB's dedicated page.
We look forward to keeping you informed about advancements that can enhance the living experience for both landlords and tenants.
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In our ongoing commitment to keeping you updated on crucial aspects of landlordship, just a gentle reminder about the latest government guidance focusing on 'Understanding and addressing the health risks of damp and mould in the home.'
This guidance reiterates the need for safe, warm, and dry living conditions for all UK residents.
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As responsible landlords, it's our duty to provide not only comfortable but also hazard-free accommodations, emphasizing the significance of addressing damp and mould promptly.
Key Points:
- Prioritise safe and comfortable living conditions for tenants.
- Promptly address cases of damp and mould to ensure tenant health.
- Review government guidance thoroughly to meet essential health and safety standards.
Additionally, we've created a helpful video on preventing and managing damp and mould in your property. Watch it here: https://youtu.be/ltLeTv69JVE
Access the full guidance directly on the government's official website here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/damp-and-mould-understanding-and-addressing-the-health-risks-for-rented-housing-providers/understanding-and-addressing-the-health-risks-of-damp-and-mould-in-the-home--2
We encourage all landlords to dedicate time to review the government's guidance and implement any necessary measures to meet these vital health and safety standards for your rental properties.
To get all the latest information, tips, advice and updates from the Safer Housing team, follow us on social media.
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