Salford residents have been urged to take part in a consultation launched to improve housing standards in the city.
The consultation is to specifically look at certain Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) under Part 2 of the Housing Act 2004, under the introduction of a Section 257 Additional HMO licensing scheme, which would cover buildings that have been poorly converted into flats.
Licensing already takes place for HMOs that are is rented to three or more people, where those people form two or more households.
Councillors made a decision on Tuesday 27 January for local people to give their views on introducing a new Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) Licensing Scheme.
Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett said: “This is a chance for residents, landlords, managing agents, businesses, elected members and other stakeholders to give their views.
“Information presented to councillors last week highlighted that a huge proportion of Section 257 HMOs failed to meet expected property standards.
“Many properties were found to suffer from poor maintenance, damp and inadequate energy efficiency, resulting in cold and unhealthy living environments. The majority also failed to meet minimum fire safety standards.
“We must now formally open this consultation and analyse all feedback received and debate it in a public meeting before any more decisions are made.”
Councillor Tracy Kelly, Deputy City Mayor and Lead Member for Housing and Anti-Poverty, added:“ I would encourage as many people as possible to take part in the consultation. We will be advertising it though our social media channels and making as many people aware as possible. It is the perfect opportunity to hear what Salford people want.”
The consultation is open until Wednesday 15 April can be found here.
