Decision
Analysis
outcome: The recommendations were approved by the Executive.
summary: The decision at stake is the review of HMO licence fees and period, renewal of HMO Amenity Standards policy, and Civil Penalties Policy.
topline: The Executive has decided to approve changes to HMO licence fees, period, and policies to improve processes for landlords.
reason_contentious: This issue is not particularly contentious as it mainly focuses on administrative and regulatory changes to improve processes for landlords.
affected_stakeholders: ["Landlords", "Council Officers", "Neighbouring districts"]
contentiousness_score: 2
political_party_relevance: There are no mentions or implications of political parties or political influence on the decision.
URL: https://meetings.westoxon.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=437
Decision Maker: Executive
Outcome: Recommendations Approved
Is Key Decision?: No
Is Callable In?: No
Purpose: The report sets out the Council's policy for the setting of HMO licence fees, the duration of an HMO licence and the policy on amenity standards for all HMOs. The report recommends the approval of these policies, the setting of the new fees and the extension of the duration of an HMO licence from three years to five years.
Content: Councillor Geoff Saul, Executive Member for Housing and Social Care, introduced the item, the purpose of which was to review the HMO licence fee and period, to renew the HMO Amenity Standards policy and the Civil Penalties Policy. Councillor Saul noted that the new policies and standards being proposed took account of legislative changes and guidance, including the Renters’ Rights Bill. At present the Council had 36 HMO licences issued, which had previously been granted on three-year terms. Following the licence expiry a new licence was required. The proposed change was to a five-year licence period, with a risk rating approach to prioritising inspections. It was hoped that these changes would better use Council resources and improve the process for landlords. In the discussion the following points were raised: Council Officers met regularly with Officers from neighbouring districts to check and review fee levels and terms. The change in the licence fee period and inspection process was not expected to reduce the standard of HMO. The Council decided when to inspect and was not therefore bound to only undertaking such inspections on grant of a licence. Councillor Saul proposed accepting the recommendations of the report. Councillor Smith seconded the recommendations This was voted on and approved unanimously. RESOLVED: That the Executive: 1. Amend the HMO Licence Fees as set out in this Report and for them to apply from 1st September 2025; 2. Approved the HMO licence period increases from 3 years to 5 years; 3. Approved the HMO Amenity Standards Policy and 4. Approved the Policy for Civil Penalties under the Housing and Planning Act 2016 and The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020.
Date of Decision: July 9, 2025