New licensing rules in Stockton led to nearly 1,000 landlord applications, with 10 streets selected for focused inspections to improve housing conditions.
The selective licensing scheme started in November. It aims to improve housing in areas with low demand and high crime. The council approved this plan last May.
So far, 925 applications have been received. About 570 are being processed, with 205 already approved. Central Stockton has the most applications, with 275 in progress.
Inspectors check for safety features like smoke alarms and proper electrical setups. Early inspections show many homes lack these crucial safety measures.
Two officers will focus on crime and anti-social behavior, while another will handle property management. A compliance officer will address issues like non-payment of fees.
The program is still new, and more inspections are expected soon. A traffic light system helps assess tenant risks based on their history.
If a tenant poses a risk, the landlord decides whether to proceed. The council aims to support tenants while holding landlords accountable.
So far, 18 properties have been inspected. Improvements are already underway, and some properties have been closed for necessary upgrades.
Officers are actively engaging with the community, identifying problem properties, and encouraging landlords to apply for licenses. As of mid-January, there are 14 cases of non-compliance.
The team also checks on rough sleepers who may have tenancies but are living in poor conditions. They aim to improve living situations for those in need.
Local leaders are optimistic about the new system, hoping it will expand and continue to improve housing conditions in Stockton.
