BRADFORD Council is warning landlords they may face significant fines under new laws if their multiple occupation properties are unregistered.

The new regulations, which come into force from October 1, require houses in multiple occupation (HMO) - properties occupied by five or more occupants forming two or more households, regardless of the number of storeys, to be licensed by the local authority.

This extends current rules which only apply to properties with three or more storeys.

Risk of serious injury or death from a fire is 17 times greater in large HMOs, so licensed properties are inspected by councils to ensure they meet strict fire and health and safety standards.

Failure to register an HMO is a criminal offence and can result in fines of up to £30,000.

Recent fines issued in Bradford for poor housing conditions in HMOs range from £15,750 to £22,000.

The Council is offering free advice for landlords who are unsure of the new rules.

Coun Alex Ross-Shaw, Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, Planning and Transport, said: “We take the safety of homes extremely seriously and will not hesitate to take action where we find evidence that landlords are not ensuring their properties are safe and meeting the proper standards.

"It is vitally important landlords register HMO properties to ensure they meet the required standards.

“If you own a property occupied by five or more tenants making two or more households, please get in touch with our housing team so they can help you comply with the new law.

“There are no excuses for unsafe or substandard accommodation.”

For further information people can call Bradford Council’s Housing Standards Team on 01274 434520 or visit www.bradford.gov.uk/housing.