Regarding the recent publication of a residential property tribunal judgement Portfolio Holder for Housing and Human Resources Councillor Toby Neal has said:
“ I am astonished at the contribution from the tribunal, one I believe to be outside its remit. There seems to be a fundamental misunderstanding of the law which is especially surprising given that the rules around Selective Licensing schemes are clear and long-standing.
Firstly, an evidence-driven case to Government was made for the scheme which was firmly based on the legislation and guidance. This was approved by the Secretary of State to run in certain areas of Nottingham where there are poor property conditions, significant and persistent anti-social behaviour and crime, or high levels of deprivation.
Secondly, Selective Licensing is not income-generating – councils are not permitted to make a profit. Licence fees solely cover the costs of setting up, operating and delivering the scheme in the city.”
Selective Licensing is a key cornerstone in protecting private renters. Under the Tory government, private renters have fewer rights compared to equivalent countries, therefore schemes like selective licensing are required to ensure that those renting have homes tat are suitable and fit to live in. it helps to prevent tenants being taken advantage of by unscrupulous landlords. Prior to selective licensing all too often landlords would prove sub-standard accommodation to residents, often vulnerable residents, or families. Properties would lack proper facilities, be infested with mould, suffering extensive damp or simply be unsafe or unfit for human habitation. Nottingham Labour understood that these tenants deserved better, they deserved a place they could call home, that would be a safe, secure environment to live in or to raise children in.
The Selective Licensing schemes in the city are proportionate and effective, they are solely about improving the standard of accommodation, not as a means of bolstering council funds.