Gateshead Council has reviewed its private landlord licensing policy as central government toys with making licensing compulsory.
Gateshead, since 2007, has required private landlords, in certain areas, to register with the local authority to improve the standard of rental accommodation. Licenses oblige private landlords to ensure their properties are equipped with carbon monoxide alarms and comply with electrical safety standards.
Licenced landlords must also "take reasonable and practicable steps" following advice or recommendations from the council to prevent or reduce anti-social behaviour by persons occupying or visiting the property. Violating or breaching a condition of a licence could result in a fine of £5,000.
