Coventry City Council is stepping up its efforts to identify unlicensed Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). The council plans to use council tax records, planning information, complaints, and intelligence from partner agencies to find properties that may be operating without the necessary licence.
The move follows resident concerns regarding issues such as late-night noise, nuisance behaviour, and pest problems, which have been linked to some poorly maintained HMOs. Councillors have also been asked to report any properties in their wards suspected of operating outside the licensing system.
Cllr John McNicholas, the council’s cabinet member for community safety and cohesion, stated that the council takes a proactive approach to investigating unlicensed HMOs. He clarified that the enforcement work targets landlords who refuse to participate in the system, not those who are responsible and registered.
Licensed HMOs are subject to inspections throughout their licence period, including checks during application, to assess compliance, and before renewal. Officers can also visit properties following complaints or other information received by the council.