Guidance for landlords in Eastbourne on how to apply for a property licence for Houses in Multiple Occupation under the Housing Act 2004.
As well as providing statutory information required by law, the application is the applicant’s opportunity to provide enough information to satisfy the council that a licence should be granted; the council would prefer to grant rather than refuse licences.
The questions ask information about:
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the applicants’ and managers’ expertise and competency
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whether they are 'fit and proper persons' or have committed relevant offences, such as for fraud, violence or under housing legislation
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and about the property itself
We may also approach your tenants, and other authorities such as Sussex Police, East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service or the Office of Fair Trading, for additional information and verification. Signing your application will be taken as your agreement to any such action.
Why do we need all this information?
The information you give will help us to process applications quickly and to prioritise inspections for the future.
The law says that we have to answer certain questions, such as:
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are you and the people connected with you 'fit and proper persons' to operate an HMO?
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does the property meet 'prescribed standards'?
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that you are a competent manager
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the appropriate number of occupiers for the property
We are also required to submit comprehensive information to the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG), the government department responsible for housing.
No property licence, no rent. Apply for your licence now.
