Landlords may face more scrutiny over rental property standards

LANDLORDS in parts of Halton could face tougher scrutiny to ensure their rental properties are up to standard if new regulations come into force.

- BY MARK SMITH Local Democracy reporter

Councillors on Halton's housing and safer policy and performance board look poised to approve 'selective licensing' in six areas of Halton.

It would mean any landlord who owns properties in Central and Westbank, Appleton, Mersey and Weston, Bridgewater, Highfield and Halton Lea wards would have to apply for a licence and be subject to inspections.

The current system relies on tenants themselves reporting disrepair to the council.

Although selective licensing dates back to 2004, changes implemented by the Government in late 2024 means permission no longer has to be granted by the secretary of state.

Several other councils including Liverpool, Wirral and Sefton already operate selective licensing.