The selective licensing scheme is designed to improve standards and is set to be expanded from 14 wards to 17 next year

A twelve-week Enfield Council consultation has been launched to seek feedback on an expanded licensing scheme for landlords in the borough.

The council is proposing a new selective licensing scheme be introduced from September next year for up to five years, which would cover 17 wards in the borough. The current scheme, encompassing 14 wards, ends in August.

Licensing schemes are designed to ensure landlords are managing their tenants and properties properly, with clear guidance for landlords on their responsibilities.

The council argues that the proposed scheme would have several benefits to residents, tenants, landlords and the wider community to “help to address poor housing standards and ensure private renters are living in safe, well-maintained, and compliant homes”.

But before a decision is made, the council says it would like to hear views from private-rented sector tenants, residents, landlords, letting and managing agents, businesses operating in Enfield, community groups, and landlord organisations.

An independent agency, MEL Research, is running the consultation on the council’s behalf and will report on the results from completed questionnaires, written responses, and consultation meetings.

Three online consultation meetings will be held to provide further information and to collect views on; on Wednesday, 5th November from 5pm to 6.30pm; Thursday, 13th November from 6pm to 7.30pm; and Wednesday, 19th November from 4pm to 5.30pm.

Susan Erbil, the council’s cabinet member for planning and regulatory services, said: “The current selective licensing scheme is due to end in August next year, so it is important the council holds a public consultation to hear from a wide range of people.

“We would like to hear the views of all residents, businesses, and landlords, so I would urge you to provide your views and feedback by completing our 20-minute questionnaire.

“Your views will enable us to continue to maintain and improve housing standards, and management of properties that are privately rented to single-family households.”

The closing date for comments and responses is Sunday, 28th December.

As well as the online survey, paper copies of the consultation questionnaire are also available from libraries in Edmonton Green, Enfield Town, Ordnance Unity Centre and Palmers Green.

For further information and to complete the consultation questionnaire:
Visit enfield.gov.uk/consultations/proposed-selective-licensing-scheme

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