Private landlords in Liverpool could be faced with a city-wide compulsory licensing scheme after Liverpool City Council approved plans to consult on its introduction.

Liverpool Council said the scheme could be introduced this year in the city, which has more than 50,000 rented properties. If implemented, it would require all property owners who rent out their properties to apply for a licence and to agree to comply with a minimum set of standards. A breach of conditions could lead to a fine or revocation of the licence.

Cllr Ann O’Byrne, Liverpool’s Cabinet Member for Housing, said: “It’s vital that we do all we can to work with landlords across Liverpool to drive up the quality of our private rented properties. Many areas which suffer blight in the city are characterised by large numbers of poorly managed private rented properties, leading to problems such as anti-social behaviour and fly-tipping.

“Licensing would create a minimum standard for the private rented sector with landlords needing to show that they have adequate systems in place for their tenants – for example, to report repairs and defects. It would also enable tenants to be confident in their choice to rent, and neighbours to be confident in landlords’ ability to effectively manage their properties.”

Liverpool already has a compulsory licensing scheme for its 1,250 Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO). The consultation period on this latest licensing initiative begins this month and lasts for 12 weeks. A report will then be presented to the Council in May.