Housing rental rules for 170,000 more properties

New rules which will help protect at least 850,000 more people in privately rented homes from poor living conditions and overcrowding have come into force this month.

By extending licensing to 170,000 more properties, the move ensures that all landlords who let out a property to five or more people must get a licence from their local housing authority. Previously, the rules only applied to properties of three or more storeys.

Under the new rules, all bedrooms must be at least 6.5 square metres and councils must ensure tenants have suitable space to store their rubbish outside homes.

Housing Minister Heather Wheeler said: “Everyone renting a home has the right to expect it is maintained to a decent standard. Extending licensing to 170,000 more properties will ensure people benefit from better quality accommodation across the country.”

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