UK Landlord Forum / Life

Hi

New to private renting and this forum and would welcome some advice on my situation.  Having purchased a property for private rental in September of this year, I was not aware it was in a landlord licensing area.  However, having been contacted by my local council, I was advised that I need to apply for a licence, which I am happy to do so.

However, they inform me that the selective licensing designation period expires in Feb 2014, and it is not clear if the area will be re-designated by the Council.  With 3 months left to run on the designation the Council has advised me that I need to pay the £500 fee in full which is usually charged for the full five year period.

I am willing to pay for the period I have owned the property until the end of the designation period (5 months) and advised that I am also willing to pay for a full licence should the designation of the area continue after expiring in 5 years.  It just doesn't seem right that I am expected to pay for a five year licence which will in effect expire in three months time?

Any advice gratefully received.

If that were me i wouldn't pay it. Just say the property has been empty or you have been living there.

Agreed, fudge the issue until you know for sure either way.

Don't be in a rush to agree with the council.

Chances are there will be a different officious little berk in charge in a months time.