Nottingham City Council is bringing in a selective licensing scheme of private landlords from 1st August.

From that date landlords who receive rent on a private property in certain parts of the city will need a licence to show their property meets safety and quality standards set out in the conditions of the licence. Failure to do so can be an expensive mistake as it can lead to financial penalties of up to £30,000 or prosecution through the courts. Tenants can also apply to a tribunal to claim their rent back for up to 12 months.

The licence conditions include – providing up to date safety certificates, evidence of any relevant training undertaken and evidence the property is sufficiently insured. The scheme covers an estimated 32,000 privately rented homes in areas of the city where the council has gathered evidence of poorer property conditions. The council aims to raise standards across the sector and provide a clear set of guidelines, which all landlords will need to achieve and follow.