Newcastle City Council has provided a further update on the introduction of its new Additional and Selective Licensing schemes.

The new city-wide schemes were originally due to commence on April 6th. However, when it became clear that the restrictions imposed by the coronavirus pandemic were preventing landlords completing their applications, the council announced a 3-month extension of the deadline for applications to July 6th.

In the news announcement, which can be found on the Newcastle City Council website Councillor Linda Hobson stated “Property licensing is a key part of our commitment to improving standards in the private rented sector but recognise that it may be difficult for some to comply with the original deadline due to the impact of Coronavirus.

“We believe that the extension to the deadline, together with the advice and support we are offering, is the best way to support landlords and letting agents in these unprecedented times.”

Although all new licence applications should now have been submitted, in the latest update the council has confirmed a further extension of the deadline for ensuring properties adhere to the new minimum standards. Landlords will now have until October 5th to make any necessary alterations to their properties to ensure compliance.

Failure to comply with the new regulations is a criminal offence and could result in unlimited fines for landlords who are still unaware of the new schemes.