Local residents could be given their say on possible tighter controls on houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) across the district.

Warwick District Council's cabinet will discuss a report in December on a scheme that would bring more HMOs under the council's licensing powers.

In the area there are currently around 700 known unlicenced properties which are three and four-person shared houses, converted flats and bedsits.

Currently WDC licensing only covers larger accommodation of five or more occupants.

If approved, the licencing scheme would require landlords to ensure smaller HMOs are safe, meet minimum space standards, maintained in good repair and free from serious hazards.

And if cabinet presses forward with the plans, a consultation would be launched early next year and ask for feedback on how it should operate and what buildings it should cover.

Cllr Jan Matecki, portfolio holder for housing, said: "There has been an increased growth of HMOs in Warwick district, and additional licencing is seen as an effective way of bringing those homes not currently licenced under tighter controls and giving tenants the reassurance of higher safety standards.

"The paper I will be bringing forward to cabinet on 7 December will also deal with many of the issues that residents have that live near to these HMOs. If approved by councillors, the consultation for this licencing scheme will provide the opportunity for tenants, residents and landlords to have their say on the proposed scheme."

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