Landlords in Redbridge have until the end of the month to take advantage of the council’s HMO licensing amnesty before facing enforcement action.

Redbridge Council’s three-month amnesty will end on Sunday, with landlords who apply before the deadline avoiding facing legal action providing an offence is not already being investigated.

From Monday, an enforcement campaign will begin, targeting landlords who did not apply for a licence during the amnesty and potentially leading to a prosecution and a £20,000 fine.

Cllr Muhammed Javed, cabinet member for housing, said: “Even though there is a shortage of housing in the borough, I believe it’s a right of everyone to live in a safe and secure accommodation.”

Properties required by law to have a HMO licence are those deemed as high risk.

The biggest risk is the increased chance of fire due to frequent use of kitchen facilities, electrical appliances and overloaded electrical sockets.

Lack of fire alarm systems and fire doors also increase the threat to tenants’ safety.

To avoid legal action, landlords should apply for a licence as soon as possible.

To apply visit redbridge.gov.uk/hmo or call 020 8708 4191 between 10am and noon Monday to Friday.

If you have any concerns about a privately rented property, visit redbridge.gov.uk/privatetenants or call 020 8554 5000.