Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) play a key role in meeting the housing needs of residents in the Borough. It is estimated that there could be as many as 9,000 HMOs within the Borough. It is recognised that there are many good landlords operating in Tower Hamlets, but unfortunately there are also those who do not maintain their properties leaving tenants at risk and giving potential problems to neighbouring properties.

The Pre-Decision Scrutiny Questions and officer responses were noted.

DECISION

1.    To agree that a consultation exercise takes place on introducing an Additional Licensing scheme for HMOs outside the current Selective Licensing area

2.    To agree that subject to consultation, the Additional Licensing Scheme will apply borough wide to HMOs of the descriptions set out in Appendix 3 to the report.

3.    To agree that the following proposals will form part of the consultation:

·         Fee Structure

·         Licence conditions

·         Amenity Standards

·         Fit and Proper Person Protocol

4.    To note that once the consultation exercise has been completed, the responses will be analysed and then a report will be submitted to the Mayor in Cabinet for a decision as to whether to adopt an Additional Licensing Scheme.

Action by:

ACTING CORPORATE DIRECTOR, PLACE (A. SUTCLIFFE)

(Head of Environmental Health and Trading Standards (D. Tolley)