Purpose

This report is requesting a technical change
to the licensing schemes (non-fundamental).
 
On 6th October 2022 Cabinet
approved the re-designation of a selective licensing scheme in the
defined area of Bootle and two additional HMO licensing schemes in
the defined areas of central Southport and areas of
Waterloo/Seaforth/Brighton Le-Sands with a commencement date 1st
March 2023.
 
Approval was also granted to authorise the
Assistant Director of Place (Economic Growth & Housing), in
consultation with the Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing to
agree any minor/technical changes to the schemes (non-fundamental
changes).
 

Decision

Decision(s):

 
(1) Certain licences
will be issued for a full 5 years, even though the date of expiry
will be after the end date of the schemes.
 
(2) Shorter licences can be
issued in certain circumstances that include where the
property is in a poor state, previous licence conditions have not
been met and where the Council has concerns over the competence of
the (proposed) licence holder and or (proposed) managing agent.
 

 
Reasons for the Decision(s):
 
(1) Cabinet Member for
Communities and Housing is required to authorise minor /technical
changes to the licensing schemes. To issue licences for a full 5
years in certain circumstances will provide a more pragmatic
approach.
 
(2) Cabinet Member for
Communities and Housing is required to authorise minor /technical
changes to the licensing schemes. To issue shorter licences in
specific circumstances allows for the Housing Standards Team to
monitor property conditions/ management more closely where
necessary.
 
 
 
Alternative Options
Considered and Rejected: (including any
Risk Implications)
 
Issue all licences with an end
date that is the same date as the expiration of the schemes. This
method although not unlawful, is unreasonable for those landlords
who are making timely applications and complying with their legal
responsibilities.