Property owners in Blackpool face enforcement action and financial penalties if they fail to comply with mandatory licensing requirements, according to local authorities.
Blackpool Council has issued a direct appeal to tenants, encouraging them to verify whether their rental property falls under licensing obligations and confirm their landlord's compliance status.
The selective licensing scheme covering Blackpool's inner districts has now completed nearly 12 months of operation. Registration data shows that over 4,500 properties—representing more than half of the approximately 9,000 dwellings subject to the scheme—have been formally registered with the council.
According to Blackpool Council's analysis, roughly three in ten registered properties have achieved the enhanced 'Blackpool Standard' certification, which establishes elevated benchmarks for property maintenance and tenant relationship management.
Prosecution
Half of participating landlords secured reduced licensing fees through energy efficiency credentials, specifically by maintaining Energy Performance Certificate ratings at band C or above.
However, non-compliant property owners now face potential legal proceedings and monetary sanctions for operating unlicensed rental accommodations.
Paula Burdess, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Street Scene and Neighbourhoods at Blackpool Council, acknowledges the sector's diversity: "Evidence demonstrates that numerous landlords across Blackpool maintain commendable housing standards, with hundreds of properties achieving our rigorous Blackpool Standard certification.
"Nevertheless, substandard housing conditions persist for many residents. Tenants have the right to request licensing documentation from their landlords and inquire about Blackpool Standard compliance."
Key priority
"Elevating residential housing quality represents a cornerstone objective for the council. Our selective licensing framework aims to transform not only individual rental properties but entire residential districts," Burdess explained.
"Through incentivizing quality property management, we anticipate increased residential stability and longer tenancy durations, which strengthens community cohesion. Historical data from previous licensing initiatives demonstrates measurable reductions in antisocial behavior, validating the effectiveness of this regulatory approach."
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