Detailed Overview: Brighton & Hove New Property Licensing Scheme

Brighton & Hove City Council has implemented a significant property licensing scheme to address the quality of housing in the private rental sector. The initiative includes Selective Licensing and Additional HMO Licensing to improve living standards, tenant safety, and landlord accountability across the city.

What is the New Licensing Scheme?

Selective Licensing Scheme:
- Applies to specific areas with evidence of poor housing conditions linked to deprivation. These include Kemptown, Moulsecoomb & Bevendean, Queens Park, and Whitehawk & Marina.
- It covers around 2,100 private rented homes in its initial phase, and pending government approval, it is planned to expand to 13 more wards.
- It aims to ensure all privately rented homes are safe, healthy and well-managed.

Additional HMO Licensing:
- It focuses on smaller houses in multiple Occupations (HMOs), covering approximately 2,200 properties citywide.
- Builds upon a prior five-year scheme that improved standards for around 5,500 tenants through stricter regulations on management and safety.

Goals of the Scheme

The council aims to:
- Improve tenant living conditions by enforcing better management and maintenance.
- Reduce unsafe or poorly maintained rental properties.
- Provide landlords with structured guidance and support to enhance property standards.
- Prevent homelessness by addressing housing issues early and minimising sudden tenancy terminations.

Key Licensing Details

Cost: The Selective Licensing Scheme fee is £670 per property for the five-year license.
Implementation Timeline:
- Selective Licensing begins with the first phase in autumn 2024.
- A three-month notice period starts in the summer of 2024 to allow landlords to prepare.
- Additional HMO Licensing is also set to launch by summer 2024.
- Impact on Landlords and Tenants

For Tenants:
- We have improved safety, health, and management standards across rental properties.
- Better protection against substandard housing and abrupt tenancy issues.

For Landlords:
Guidance and support from the council are needed to maintain compliance. - Increased accountability, but with concerns over rising costs potentially reducing rental property supply.

How We’re Supporting Landlords

Our team recognises the challenges landlords may face under this new scheme. To ease the transition:

- We will manage the licensing process for you at no additional cost.
- Our team will make sure all required documentation is accurate and submitted promptly.
- We offer ongoing support to ensure your property remains compliant throughout the scheme.

Why This Matters

Brighton and Hove have a large private rental market, yet inconsistent property management has been a persistent issue. The licensing scheme is a step toward creating safer, healthier, and more stable housing for tenants while promoting responsible property ownership. Whether you’re a landlord with concerns or a tenant seeking better living conditions, this initiative significantly changes the city’s housing landscape. If you have any questions or need assistance with your licensing needs, contact us directly, and we’ll ensure a seamless process.