Selective Licensing Scheme Evaluation, re-designated Area Central Bensham

Many landlords in Gateshead operate within the law and offer a significant amount of high-quality accommodation, managed effectively at an affordable price. Within the borough there are concentrations of private rented accommodation (up to 65% in some areas), traditionally in areas of deprivation, where the private rented sector is commonly below standard in terms of property condition and tenancy management.

The Council continues to deal with complaints and demand concerning landlords and properties. In these concentrated areas house and rental prices are lower than average. When properties do come up for sale they may be bought up by landlords because of the low price and lack of demand from owner occupiers. These properties tend to house vulnerable tenants and low-income families who are statistically more likely to be in fuel poverty and are subject to the effects of crime and anti-social behaviour (ASB). 

Problems such as fly tipping and refuse, excessive noise and ASB, poor property conditions and overcrowding are disproportionally linked to private rented accommodation. A wide proportion of tenants are in receipt of housing allowance and their financial circumstances mean that they have a limited choice over the quality of accommodation they can access.

For many tenants, there is the perception that there is little control over living conditions, and subsequently, they are less likely to complain to their landlord or Local Authority.

While many landlords take their responsibility seriously and provide much needed housing within Gateshead, there are also negligent or criminal landlords who exploit vulnerable tenants by letting out cramped, unsuitable and, in some cases, dangerous properties, and fail to manage these tenancies and properties effectively. With this,and the growth of the sector in mind, there is a need to ensure effective management of these properties in concentrated areas to prevent rogue landlord activity, maintain good standards and ensure a thriving sector and well managed stock.