Landlords in Preston could be required to pay a £1,050 selective licensing fee if a new scheme proposed by Preston City Council is approved. The council has launched a consultation on the plans, which would apply to private landlords operating within designated areas.
The proposed fee of £1,050 would be paid in two instalments: £470 and £580, upon the council granting the licence. The council has stated that no selective licensing fee discounts will be offered, nor will payment by direct debit or instalments be available.
If approved, the scheme would require all private landlords in the city centre, St Matthew’s, and Plungington wards to obtain a licence lasting up to five years. Landlords would also need to comply with conditions covering safety, repairs, maintenance, waste, and tenancy management.
Councillor Zafar Coupland, cabinet member for health and wellbeing, stated the proposal is based on evidence of higher levels of poor housing conditions and housing-related issues in these areas. He added that responsible landlords stand to benefit from a level playing field that helps tackle poor practice.
The consultation is open for at least 10 weeks and will close at midnight on Sunday, 11 October.