Enfield Council says it wants to “ensure improved HMO property standards and better protection for private renters”

Enfield Council has launched a consultation on its proposals for a property licensing scheme for small, shared houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) in the borough.

The proposed licensing scheme would take into account the views and feedback of residents, tenants, landlords, business owners and anyone else who has an interest in the private rented sector in Enfield.

The council says it is “committed to its vision to have more and better homes for Enfield”. To help support this vision, the council has launched a consultation on proposals that, if approved, it says would help to improve housing conditions and standards for HMO tenants.

In 2020, the council introduced a scheme known as ‘additional HMO licensing’ to improve property conditions, safety and management standards. The current scheme applies to shared houses that do not fall under the national mandatory HMO licensing scheme and will end in August 2025.

Since the start of the current scheme, the council says it has seen improvements in the quality and safety of HMOs. However, there is still “more to do” to ensure improved HMO property standards and better protection for private renters. The council says it now wants to “continue the good work that has been achieved so far” and proposes a further additional HMO licensing scheme from 1st September 2025.

Susan Erbil, cabinet member for planning and regulatory services, said: “Enfield, as with the rest of London, is in the midst of a housing crisis. With record numbers of people living in temporary accommodation and increasing numbers of families in crisis, there is an extreme shortage of housing within the borough.

“We know that it’s never been more important for the council to ensure that HMO properties provide safety and security to all residents.

“Our existing scheme has seen significant action taken to tackle poor standards in the private rented sector, and we know that many landlords provide well managed properties which do not cause issues for tenants or the wider community, for which we are grateful.

“However, council officers continue to uncover renters living in unsuitable and often dangerous conditions; some of these are our most vulnerable residents.

“Supporting our most vulnerable residents is a number one priority for the council. That’s why we want to ensure that as many people as possible have the chance to take part, share their views and comment on our proposals.”

The consultation closes on Monday, 7th October.

Take part in the HMO licensing consultation:
Visit enfield.gov.uk/consultations/additional-hmo-licensing

Paper copies can also be requested via the council’s four hub libraries or via email or phone:
Call 020 3821 1761
Email [email protected]

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