Angered property owners have branded the project being piloted in the area as a “stealth tax” as it will cost them almost £500 per property — and are threatening court action.
They’ve formed the Hathershaw Landlords Association in an attempt to restart discussions on the new licence, intended to improve standards, that could hit them with fines of up to £20,000 if they don’t pay up.
Click here to read the full story Landlords in ‘tax’ rebellion
NetRent Comment
Selective licencing has been adopted by many councils to help them 'police' perceived problem areas. Quite a few have been challenged but the proposed action by Newham Council could change everything. Under Newham's proposals all landlords would have to become licensed with fees starting at £300.
Landlords and letting agents have to wake up to the fact that we are beginning to see universal landlord licensing imposed via the back door.
