Rental Licensing in Granby Street, Leicester: Schemes and Fees

Granby Street, a prominent area in Leicester, is subject to a selective licensing scheme implemented by Leicester City Council. This scheme, formally titled "Leicester City Council designation for Areas for Selective Licensing within parts of the Wards of - Stoneygate (East Cluster); Westcotes, Fosse, Braunstone Park & Rowley Fields (West Cluster); (No.2)", began on 29 December 2022. Its purpose is to elevate housing standards and management practices for privately rented properties, requiring landlords in Granby Street to comply with its regulations to avoid penalties.

This selective licensing scheme applies to all privately rented properties within the designated areas, regardless of occupants or households, unless specific exemptions are met. Unlike mandatory or additional Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) licensing, which targets properties with multiple occupants, this scheme means even a single-family dwelling let on a private tenancy in Granby Street requires a licence if it falls within the scheme's boundaries. The council's proactive stance aims to enhance tenant welfare and promote responsible property management, ensuring all rental homes meet acceptable safety and habitability standards. This initiative forms part of a wider strategy to tackle issues such as poor property conditions, management deficiencies, and anti-social behaviour that have historically impacted parts of the private rented sector in these specific wards.

The designation for this scheme was made on 29 September 2022 and is scheduled to conclude on 9 October 2027, unless the Council revokes it sooner. This five-year period offers landlords a clear timeframe to understand and fulfil their obligations. The scheme's targeted approach to specific wards, including those covering Granby Street, underscores the council's identification of areas needing enhanced oversight to address property-related concerns.

What Landlords Need to Know - practical specifics unique to this location

Landlords with properties on Granby Street must recognise that their obligations extend beyond general tenancy laws due to the selective licensing scheme. The Leicester City Council's designation specifically targets privately rented homes in this area, requiring a licence for each property. This is crucial for maintaining legal compliance and avoiding significant fines. The council's enforcement policy, which accompanies this scheme, outlines the actions taken against non-compliant landlords, including potential prosecution and rent repayment orders.

Properties subject to this licence must meet specific conditions related to property management, safety, and habitability. This includes ensuring all gas and electrical installations are certified, fire safety measures are in place, and general repairs are addressed promptly. The council will assess whether the proposed licence holder is the most appropriate person and if the property is competently managed. Furthermore, properties must be free from Category 1 Hazards as assessed under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System, a key component of the Housing Act 2004.

Applying for a selective licence involves a detailed process, including submitting a 'Fit and proper person' declaration, which must be dated within the last three months. This declaration is a critical component, assessing the suitability of the proposed licence holder and any managing agents involved. The application fee for a selective licence in Leicester is £1,290, a figure established to cover the administrative costs associated with processing applications, conducting property inspections, and enforcing compliance throughout the scheme's duration. It is important for landlords to factor this cost into their financial planning. Leicester City Council offers assistance with submitting applications, with dedicated support sessions available on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 10am and 2:45pm. Landlords are strongly encouraged to utilise these resources to ensure their application is completed accurately and efficiently, thereby avoiding potential delays or rejections. The council's Selective Licensing team, based at York House, 91 Granby Street, Leicester, LE1 6FB, is readily accessible for advice and guidance, highlighting the local nature of this regulatory framework.

Landlord Checklist

1. Verify Property Eligibility: Confirm if your Granby Street property falls within the designated selective licensing area by checking the official Leicester City Council maps or contacting the Selective Licensing team directly.

2. Complete 'Fit and Proper Person' Declaration: Ensure you have a current 'Fit and proper person' declaration, dated within the last three months, ready for your application.

3. Prepare for Property Inspection: Address any potential Category 1 Hazards under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System and ensure all gas and electrical safety certificates are up to date.

4. Budget for Licensing Fee: Allocate £1,290 for the selective licence application fee, understanding this is a per-property cost.

5. Submit Application Promptly: Apply for your selective licence well in advance of the deadline to avoid operating an unlicensed property, which carries substantial penalties.

6. Maintain Property Standards: Continuously uphold high standards of property management, including regular maintenance, fire safety, and addressing anti-social behaviour, throughout the licence period.

Operating an unlicensed property in a designated selective licensing area such as Granby Street, Leicester, can lead to prosecution with fines up to £20,000, and landlords may be ordered to repay up to 12 months' rent.

Understanding and adhering to the selective licensing requirements in Granby Street is paramount for landlords. For further guidance and to ensure full compliance, landlords should consult the official Leicester City Council website or contact the Selective Licensing team directly. This proactive approach safeguards both landlord and tenant interests, contributing to a well-managed private rented sector in Leicester. Further information can be found on the Leicester City Council website at www.leicester.gov.uk/selectivelicensing.