Leeds landlords seek judicial review of proposed Leeds selective licensing scheme

Currently, local authorities have powers to introduce selective licensing of privately rented homes in order to tackle problems in their areas - such as poor housing conditions or high levels of crime.

The Leeds Landlord Lobby Group, formed to represent private landlords across the city, note that selective licensing places “additional regulatory and financial burdens” on private landlords alone, while social landlords and local authorities operating in the same areas are exempt.

The group argue the scheme is being introduced “without clear evidence that such measures will improve housing standards or tenant outcomes”.

The landlord lobby group said: “After careful consideration, professional advice, and consultation with affected landlords, the group believes there are serious legal and procedural flaws in how this scheme has been developed and justified.”

As a result, it announced it is seeking to bring a judicial review against Leeds City Council.

It said: “Public authorities are required to act fairly, proportionately, and without unjustified discrimination.

“Where regulatory burdens are imposed on one sector alone, while others are exempt, the authority must be able to show that:

• The distinction is justified
• The approach is proportionate
• Relevant impacts have been properly considered.”

The group has launched a GoFundMe campaign to fund its legal costs, which has raised £5,700 of its £30,000 target.

A Leeds City Council spokesperson said: “Leeds City Council can confirm that it has received a pre-action protocol letter regarding a potential judicial review challenge to the selective licensing scheme. The letter is being carefully considered and the council will respond in line with the pre-action protocol.

“The selective licensing scheme forms part of the council’s wider housing strategy and Leeds Ambitions to tackle poverty and inequality. It is based on evidence of high levels of deprivation alongside a high concentration of private rented homes in parts of East, South and West Leeds, and is intended to improve housing conditions and protect tenants in some of the city’s most disadvantaged communities.

“In light of the prospective legal proceedings, it would not be appropriate to comment further on the specific issues raised at this stage.”

Lottie Winson