Commentary on Sections Part 2 – Licensing of Houses in Multiple Occupation Section 56: Designation of areas subject to additional licensing
180.Section 56 permits an LHA to extend licensing beyond the scope of mandatory licensing (see section 55). An LHA can designate part or all of its area as subject to additional licensing for specified types of HMOs. An LHA must consider that a significant proportion of the HMOs (of the type it is considering licensing) are being managed ineffectively so as to give rise problems for the occupiers or members of the public. In considering the quality of management, LHAs must take into account the degree to which relevant codes of practice (if any) are being adhered to (see section 233).
181.Before making a designation an LHA must consult with those likely to be affected by it and take account of any representations.