Croydon aims to improve rental housing with a licensing scheme, ensuring safety and tackling mismanagement for tenants.
The scheme makes landlords get a license. This is needed to rent property in certain areas. It should improve housing and ensure safety. It aims to tackle poor management and bad behavior.
Licensing lets councils monitor rental properties. They can set landlord standards and act against those who fail. Most Croydon landlords keep things good, but some rentals have serious issues.
Problems include dampness and mold. There are also fire risks and shaky structures. These things can harm tenants’ health. Mayor Jason Perry spoke last Wednesday, saying some homes are poor and unsafe.
The government recently changed housing rules. This makes it easier for councils to act. Perry said they must move forward quickly and that they don’t want to wait longer.
The council will introduce the scheme soon as part of their Housing Strategy. They consulted residents and landlords already, and will keep talking as the scheme grows. They need final approval before starting fully.
Other areas use licensing with good results. Newham started theirs back in 2013. Merton has even seized property from bad landlords; that started in 2023.
Perry said they will protect renters’ rights. They also plan to hold bad landlords accountable. Everyone deserves a safe rental home.