LANDLORDS of local rental properties that are let to five or more people of more than one household will need to have applied for a licence from Cotswold District Council before October 1.

The change in law recognises that Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) have higher associated risks and need to have fire safety procedures and precautions in place.

Councillor Sue Coakley, the CDC Cabinet Member responsible for licensing rental properties says: “We are urging landlords and managers to get in touch with us so we can help them comply with the law and protect their tenants. Failure to license a HMO property could result in a fine of up to £20,000.”

For further advice, information and a licence application visit the web page where you can apply on-line cotswold.gov.uk/residents/housing