The Council has approved recommendations to develop an Additional Licensing Policy for HMOs and consider extending the Article 4 Direction.

URL: https://modgov.hillingdon.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=3366

Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose:

Content: RESOLVED:   That:   the programme of works and timetable to progress collating and analysing the evidence base and drafting of a proposed Additional Licensing Policy, be noted.   the progress of the Housing Tenure Survey to provide robust data and evidence on a number of complex data sets which will inform policy options, be noted.   authority be delegated to the Corporate Director of Homes & Communities, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Planning, Housing & Economic Growth, to agree the draft policy for consultation and public consultation approach, based on supporting evidence assessed during the first stages of the project.   the need for relevant fees and charges and scoping of service resources to support the implementation of any policy proposal supporting additional licensing, be noted.   the outcomes of any consultations relating to the formation of an additional licensing policy be reported back to Cabinet in February 2026 for consideration and determination.   Reasons for decision   The Cabinet Member for Planning, Housing & Growth introduced a report and moved recommendations, which Cabinet agreed, to progress the next steps in developing an Additional Licensing Policy for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) and to consider extending the Article 4 Direction. This initiative followed a motion passed at full Council in July of the previous year.   The Cabinet was informed that a borough-wide 10-year housing survey was underway and due for completion in August. This survey was expected to provide robust evidence to determine whether further regulation through licensing or planning controls could be justified.   The proposal was to continue this work and, if supported by the evidence, to enter into public consultation later in the year on a draft Additional Licensing Policy and a possible extension of the Article 4 Direction. The Cabinet Member emphasised that the aim was to tackle poor housing standards, anti-social behaviour, protect tenants and communities, and support responsible landlords.   The Leader of the Council acknowledged residents’ concerns about the time required to implement such measures. He explained that the process involved gathering a multitude of evidence and following proper procedures to avoid legal challenges. He expressed regret over the regulatory complexity but affirmed that the cautious approach was necessary to ensure compliance.   Alternative options considered and rejected   Cabinet could have decided to do nothing, which would have failed to meet the commitments of the Council motion and not have dealt with various issues in the private rented sector; or alternatively Cabinet could have decided to use existing powers to manage HMOs, which, while viable, it considered had already proven insufficient in addressing community concerns.   Relevant Select Committee Residents’ Services Expiry date for any scrutiny call-in / date decision can be implemented (if no call-in) Cabinet’s decisions on this matter can be called in by a majority of the select committee by 5pm, Friday 1 August 2025. If not called-in by then, Cabinet’s decisions can then be implemented. Officer(s) to action Richard Webb / Stephanie Waterford Julia Johnson Directorate Homes & Communities / Place Classification Public - The report and any background papers relating to this decision by the Cabinet are available to view on the Council's website or by visiting the Civic Centre, Uxbridge.  

Date of Decision: July 24, 2025