Most people believe that licensing landlords in parts of Weymouth could improve the lives of vulnerable people.
A survey, completed by 520 people earlier this year, revealed that most residents think licensing landlords could improve the way private rented housing is managed.
The survey revealed that 60 percent of people thought that the scheme would positively improve Melcombe Regis, while 23 percent thought it wouldn’t. A total of seven per cent did not know and 10 per cent did not have a view.
Under the Selective Licensing Scheme, only landlords who meet a ‘fit and proper person’ test would qualify for a licence. Landlords would also have to make sure that properties are maintained to a decent standard.
The idea was suggested by the Melcombe Regis Board, which was set-up to tackle inequalities. Life expectancy in Melcombe Regis is 10 years lower than other parts of Dorset and poor quality housing is a factor.
Life expectancy 10 years lower, poor housing is a factor
Cllr Graham Carr-Jones, Dorset Council Housing Portfolio Holder, said: “I’d like to thank the 520 people who took the trouble to have their say. Everyone who rents should be able to live in a decent home. Poor housing affects physical and mental health.
“We cannot ignore the fact that life expectancy in Melcombe Regis is 10 years less than other parts of Dorset, we have to face and tackle these issues, which is why Dorset Council is considering introducing a landlord licensing scheme.
“I’d like to make it clear that this scheme is being considered in addition to efforts to deliver more affordable and social housing, it is not instead of. Housing shortages mean tenants need more, not less, protection. Private rented housing is a free market where ‘going rates’ apply and there is no evidence from other areas that costs are passed to tenants.
“We recognise that most landlords operate responsibly and offer good standard and we work with many of them through our Landlords Local Authority Partnership.”
Most landlords operate responsibly
If introduced, Dorset Council would make no profit from the scheme and landlords would probably pay a small fee of around £100 a year.
Dorset Council works with landlords to improve housing. Current schemes include ‘Heat Melcombe Regis’, which sees free central heating made available as well as other measures to tackle fuel poverty. The council also supports and works with landlords through the Landlords Local Authority Partnership.
The survey results are now available.
More information on the council’s work with landlords is available here.
