Selective Licensing scheme is welcome, but should include similar/identical properties in Shaw
Shaw Liberal Democrat Councillor Howard Sykes MBE has welcomed Oldham Council proposals to introduce selective licensing for private-rented properties in Shaw but would like more properties included in the scheme. Lower housing demand, lower rents and higher tenant turnover can lead to private-rented properties being left empty for long periods or being poorly maintained or managed. In these circumstances, councils can introduce selective licensing which requires landlords to properly maintain and manage their properties. These schemes are self-financing as landlords pay a fee to license each property they own in each area, and properties are inspected before they can be licensed. Oldham Council is currently consulting landlords, tenants and residents about its plans to introduce schemes in six new areas, including Shaw, and Councillor Sykes has responded to the consultation.…