Decision expected on new rules for landlords
Proposed changes to the Council’s Better Homes for All programme, which would introduce new rules for landlords and further improve safety and standards in privately rented homes, are set to be decided next week.
An update on Better Homes for All will go to Cabinet next week (Thursday 14 May) and will include feedback from the consultation regarding additional licensing of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) launched in December and details of new national legislation affecting landlords.
Better Homes for All was launched by Telford & Wrekin Council several years ago to raise housing standards in the rented sector and this programme has delivered real improvements across the Borough, with the Council working alongside key partners, including the police, to enforce standards.
The Council remains committed to further improving housing conditions including ensuring consistency in how properties across the Borough are managed and addressing impacts on neighbourhoods associated with poorly managed properties.
At the end of 2025, the Council launched a consultation on proposals to extend licensing requirements to smaller HMOs, which are not currently covered by mandatory licensing.
The additional licensing would mean all HMO properties would be inspected for safety and hazard compliance and landlords would be required to manage issues such as anti-social behaviour.
The results of the consultation, which show a majority of people who responded were in favour of the proposals, will be presented to cabinet when it meets next week and members will be asked to approve plans to bring in additional licensing from 20 August 2026.
Recognising the impact for landlords the report, sets out proposals for an enhanced Landlord Support Programme to help landlords comply with the new requirements and those coming through the Renters Right’s Act.
This includes providing technical licensing support through a new Tenancy Intervention Officer to help landlords navigate the changes.
The Report also seeks approval for an early bird discount for landlords submitting full and valid license applications between 20 May and 19 August.
Councillor Richard Overton, Telford & Wrekin Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Highways, Housing and Enforcement, said:
“This is a pivotal moment for real change in the rented sector. New national legislation will strengthen protections for private tenants, and locally, subject to approval next week, we could see new requirements introduced for smaller HMOs to raise safety and housing standards.
“I’d like to thank everyone who took part in our additional licensing consultation. It was vital that we listened to landlords, tenants and the wider community before putting forward these proposals.
“If approved, additional licensing will help level the playing field across the HMO sector, providing tenants with greater protection while ensuring landlords meet clear, consistent and enforceable standards.
“At a time of significant national reform and proposed local change, we will also expand our support for landlords, helping them understand and comply with the legislation so we can work together to improve the quality and safety of rented homes and root out poor practice which damages the reputation of landlords.”
Changes under the Renters‘ Rights Act came into force on May 1.
To find out more about the Government’s legislation and how it impacts landlords and tenants go to https://www.gov.uk/guidance/renting-out-your-property-guidance-for-landlords-and-letting-agents/renters-rights-act-an-overview-for-landlords