Council urges ‘wronged’ tenants to seek Rent Repayment Orders
Summary
Bromley Council is encouraging tenants in unlicensed HMOs to consider Rent Repayment Orders, following enforcement action against a landlord fined for operating a licensable HMO without the required licence. The council says licensing and housing standards are intended to improve management, maintenance and tenant safety, and it is using its enforcement powers where breaches are identified.
Why it matters
Residential surveyors involved with HMOs need to be aware that licensing failures can trigger significant financial penalties and tenant claims, including RROs. The article also highlights the interaction between HMO licensing and Article 4 Direction controls, which can affect property use and compliance advice.
Key points
- Bromley Council is urging tenants in unlicensed HMOs to seek Rent Repayment Orders.
- A landlord was fined £27,500 for operating a licensable HMO without a licence in Bolton Gardens, Bromley.
- The council says tenants can check HMO licence status on its public register.
- The council states that landlords and managing agents have clear obligations under licensing and planning requirements.
- Article 4 Direction powers are being used to limit the creation of additional HMOs.
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