To adopt the newly drafted Essex Wide Amenity
Standards for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO’s) that are
to be introduced prior to the extended mandatory licensing scheme
from October 1st 2018. On October 1st 2018, the extended mandatory
licensing scheme comes into force bringing numerous changes to what
will constitute an HMO, new mandatory licence conditions and
minimum room sizes for accommodation. As a consequence, the
existing Essex Wide Amenity Standards have been re-drafted to
include the aforementioned changes. These standards have been
drafted following meetings with all LA’s in Essex having an
input into the content, and following consultation with Landlords,
Tenants and members of the public alike. By having an adopted set
of County wide standards it ensures each Authority’s approach
to enforcement action is similar with less potential for challenge.
The standards have been written in accordance with government
guidance (minimum standards) and include higher standards where
deemed appropriate in accordance with government
recommendations.