Residents ‘too afraid to complain’ - Telford to toughen HMO rules to raise safety standards

Increased fire risks, overcrowding and anti-social behaviour have been cited in a push for wider HMO licensing requirements in Telford.

Next week, councillors in Telford & Wrekin are expected to vote to extend licensing requirements to all Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO), amid an increasing number across the borough.

It would mean that small HMOs, which are not currently subject to mandatory licensing, would be inspected for safety and hazard compliance, and landlords would be required to manage issues such as anti-social behaviour.

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A report, which will be submitted to Telford & Wrekin’s cabinet next week, shows a correlation with an increase in HMOs alongside higher levels of crime and anti-social behaviour, overcrowding, and poor property conditions.

Photographs shared in the report show cases of black mould, broken bathroom tiles, holes in walls and dodgy electrics.

The report also states that there is an increased fire risk in HMOs due to having more occupants and more ignition sources.

“HMOs are a vital source of housing in the borough with home ownership out of reach for many and particularly our most vulnerable residents,” the report states.

“Poorly managed HMOs are associated with increased incidences of antisocial behaviour and crime.

“Studies show that people living in HMOs are at an increased risk of suffering mental health issues due to feelings of isolation and fear stemming from sharing a house with strangers.

“In order to ensure that those living within HMOs have a good standard of living, it is incumbent on landlords to take steps to maintain good housing standards and to address poor behaviour amongst tenants.”

The council argues that current measures, which include prosecution for breaches of regulations, are “reactive rather than proactive”, and ineffective because many residents are “too afraid to complain to the council”.

The report also sets out proposals for an enhanced Landlord Support Programme to help landlords comply with the new requirements and others coming through the Renters Right’s Act.

It also seeks approval for an early bird discount for landlords submitting license applications over the next three months.

Deputy council leader, Councillor Richard Overton, said: “This is a pivotal moment for real change in the rented sector. New national legislation will strengthen protections for private tenants, and locally, subject to approval next week, we could see new requirements introduced for smaller HMOs to raise safety and housing standards.

“If approved, additional licensing will help level the playing field across the HMO sector, providing tenants with greater protection while ensuring landlords meet clear, consistent and enforceable standards.

“At a time of significant national reform and proposed local change, we will also expand our support for landlords, helping them understand and comply with the legislation so we can work together to improve the quality and safety of rented homes and root out poor practice which damages the reputation of landlords.”

Telford & Wrekin Council’s cabinet will meet next Thursday, May 14.