Scores of private landlords in Basildon could have to pay a licence fee if the council goes ahead with a planned selective licensing scheme.
The local council has approved a feasibility study in a bid to improve housing standards in the borough and says officers will now start gathering evidence to help members make an informed decision about whether to move forward.
Following an initial cabinet report in May, the council held informal discussions with a specialist consultancy to gain insights and studied the experiences of other local authorities.
Councillor Adele Brown, deputy leader and cabinet member for housing and infrastructure (right), says exploring a selective licensing scheme gives it an opportunity to drive up standards in privately rented homes, while also addressing wider concerns such as anti-social behaviour and irresponsible landlords.
“Any future scheme would be developed in line with our housing strategy, which takes a joined-up approach to tackling homelessness, empty homes, and the challenges faced within the private rented sector,” she adds.
A report will be brought back to cabinet once the feasibility work is complete, including plans for a public consultation.
Earlier this month the Essex town announced a major crackdown on illegal HMOs and revealed a new ‘HMO Taskforce’ to reinforce its commitment to tackling the illegal use of this kind of tenancy within its borders.
Its initiative will ‘restore order and protect local communities’ and the taskforce will respond to every report from residents while every property will be visited and every violation dealt with, the council says, although it has not revealed how many such properties are within the borough.
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