Dominic Robinson
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6 Posts
Our local council is bringing out a selective and additional licensing scheme that covers all HMOs across most of the city. 12,000 properties I believe.
Their conditions are onerous, and the fee extortionate.
https://www.newcastle.gov.uk/sites/default/files/Property Licensing Guidance Feb 2020 v2.pdf
I have mandatory licensed HMOs from 2008 (5 person, three storey) I care about my historic property in as much as I have had plasterwork, stained glass, woodwork etc restored and preserved while I own the property for the enjoyment of current tenants and future owners/occupants.
These initial properties have had the original heavy duty doors that provided 20 minutes fire protection upgraded to provide the required 30 minutes protection using products provided by Envirograf. These doors have passed the initial assessment by the City Council and more recently the re-issuing of my licenses.
The latest information (see the link above, specifically at the bottom of page 30) states that this is not now acceptable. I sent a considerable sum of money on the doors and I will not be happy having to replace them.
I don't want my tenants to be at risk of injury.
These products are used in historic buildings, some of which are open to the public and I would think insurers would only accept certain standards.
The new standards in Newcastle say that fire doors are needed on all HMO kitchens, even 2 storey properties.
I would like to upgrade my 20 minute doors to 30 minute doors by using this product. I think the Council think I am just wanting to cut costs; this is more expensive that putting in a cheap fire door.
Please can you look at this and comment.
