Lewisham private landlords will need to join new licensing scheme to improve standards

Proposals for a new landlord licensing scheme in Lewisham were approved at a council meeting on Wednesday.

The plans will now be submitted to the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities for approval.

The scheme aims to improve the quality and management of privately rented accommodation in the borough.

More than a quarter of households in Lewisham rent privately, according to the Office for National Statistics.

If approved, the scheme will protect an extra 20,000 households, helping to ensure safe and secure housing for private renters.

Nearly all privately rented properties in Lewisham, not covered by the existing licensing schemes for Houses of Multiple Occupations would need a licence under the new scheme.

In order to obtain a licence, properties need to meet minimum health and safety standards.

Landlords who fail to fulfill their statutory responsibilities, such as carrying out repairs efficiently, would be subject to enforcement action from the council.

Councillor Sophie Davis, Cabinet Member for Housing Management and Homelessness, said: “Everybody deserves a safe place to call home and currently far too many private renters have to put up with homes which are not fit for purpose.”

Pictured top: Lewisham council headquarters in Catford (Picture: Google Street View)