The Council’s HMO Enforcement Team (along with partner agencies) regularly carry out targeted enforcement visits across the city.
Through this they uncovered multiple unlicensed Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) and potential breaches of housing and safety standards.
In fact, Coventry was rated first across the whole of England for the number of HMO-related civil penalties issued in 2021/22–2022/23. The figures were based on feedback from almost 300 councils.
Multi-agency inspections and dedicated HMO enforcement work, focuses on improving housing conditions and protecting residents from unsafe or exploitative accommodation.
The visits form part of Coventry City Council’s ongoing work to tackle rogue landlords, improve housing standards and to ensure that all residents are living in safe, legally compliant accommodation.
Councillor John McNicholas, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and cohesion, said: “This proactive enforcement work demonstrates our commitment to protecting tenants and holding landlords to account. This applies to landlords who are breaking the rules and failing to maintain proper standards.
“We will continue to take firm action where properties are found to be operating illegally or where conditions put residents at risk. Working with our partners allows us to identify issues early and respond effectively."
“I’m asking local people to help by letting me know where HMO’s are, we have a list but there will be some we need to be aware of. Help me to help you!”
Councillor Naeem Akhtar, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, said: "Landlords are reminded of their legal responsibilities, including the requirement to licence HMOs where applicable and comply with all relevant safety standards. Failure to do so may result in significant penalties".
In several cases, officers obtained witness statements and are progressing enforcement action.
We use council tax records, planning information, complaints, partner agencies, and officer investigations to identify properties that may be operating without the required licence. We welcome any reports from residents
All licensed HMOs are subject to a programme of inspection throughout the life of their licence.
Typically, this includes:
- 1. An inspection on application before a licence is granted, enabling the council to assess the suitability, condition and management of the property and apply appropriate licence conditions.
- 2. A further inspection to check compliance with licence conditions.
- 3. An inspection before the licence is renewed. In addition, inspections may be carried out in response to complaints or intelligence received by the Council.
The HMO licensing regime regulates the management, safety and standards of HMOs. It does not control whether a property can be extended or altered.
Matters relating to extensions, alterations and development are considered through the planning and building control process and are subject to the relevant legislation and consultation requirements. Some extensions may be undertaken through permitted development rights and therefore do not require a planning application.