Decision details

To request approval for designation of a new licensing scheme (covering smaller HMOs (following public consultation).

Having considered the detail and reasons set out in the report and supporting appendices, Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)       To note the outcome of the consultation process detailed in the Consultation Report (attached as Appendix 1to the report), the representations received and the Council’s consideration and response to those representations (attached as Appendix 2 to the report).

(2)       To note that the document to support undertaking the public consultation (consultation evidence pack - attached as Appendix 3 to the report) and Housing Conditions and Stressors Report (attached as Appendix 4 to the report) highlighted the scale of problems relating to poorly managed HMOs in the private rented sector, identified the objectives that the proposed additional HMO licensing scheme would help the Council achieve and alternatives to licensing which had been considered.

(3)       Having considered and noted the matters at (1) and (2) above and using the powers under s.56 Housing Act 2004, to agree to designate a new Additional Licensing area of the whole of the London Borough of Brent from 02 February 2026 or at a later date in accordance with the statutory time required for the scheme to come into force as delineated and edged red on the map in the draft designation attached as Appendix 5 to the report.

(4)       To authorise the Corporate Director of Resident and Housing Services, subject to statutory notifications, to determine an alternative start date for accepting applications for selective licensing, if necessary.

(5)       To agree to the proposed licensing scheme objectives as set out in Appendix 6 of the report.

(6)       To agree the proposed HMO licensing conditions that would accompany any granted HMO licence as set out in Appendix 7 of the report.

(7)       To agree the proposed fee structure for licence applications made under the additional HMO licensing scheme as set out within Appendix 8 of the report.

(8)       Following on from (7) above, to agree to apply the same proposed fee structure to mandatory HMO licenses applications noting that for mandatory licensing, there is no statutory duty to consult on fees.

(9)       To note, in terms of the decisions made, that due regard had been taken of the Equality Analysis as detailed within Appendix 9 of the report.

(10)    To agree to delegate authority to the Director of Housing Services to issue the required statutory notifications in relation to the designation and, in consultation with the Cabinet Member, to ensure compliance in all respects with all relevant procedures and formalities applicable to authorisation of the scheme; to keep the proposed scheme under review during the designation lifetime and agree any changes to the proposed implementation and delivery, including administration, fees and conditions as necessary for the effective administration of the scheme, and give all necessary statutory notifications.

(11)    To agree to delegate authority to the Director of Housing Services to approve the carry forward of any surplus or deficits to the established ring-fenced trading account as and when necessary, subject to consultation with the Chief Finance Officer.

Eligible for call-in: Yes

Deadline for submission of call-in: 6pm on Monday 20 October 25