More than 2,000 issues found in Peterborough rental homes

The issues were found after the council launched a scheme in March to improve standards in rental properties.

The initiative, run by Peterborough City Council and its partner, Home Safe, requires landlords in certain parts of the city to apply for a five-year licence to ensure their properties meet required safety and living standards.

Since the scheme's launch, more than 7,000 applications have been made, and more than 500 properties have undergone inspections.

The inspections have identified more than 2,000 issues, including "hazards such as severe damp and mould, missing or faulty smoke detectors, inadequate ventilation in kitchens and bathrooms, the absence of window restrictors, and damaged ceiling and wall plaster."

The council is now working with landlords to resolve these problems and enhance living conditions for tenants.

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Councillor Alison Jones, Peterborough City Council’s cabinet member for housing and communities, said: “I’m delighted that the Selective Licensing scheme is continuing to make good progress and is already playing a key role in our aim of improving private rental housing in Peterborough, which in turn will help us create strong and sustainable communities.

“The fact that more than 2,000 issues have already been identified demonstrates that there was a clear need for Selective Licensing to be introduced.

"I would like to thank those landlords who have joined the scheme and are working with us to improve standards.”

Mr Brook, Home Safe’s scheme manager, said: "We’re pleased with the impact the scheme is already having on improving housing standards.

"With over 500 inspections carried out on licensed properties, we are uncovering serious issues that could have otherwise gone unreported.

"By working closely with landlords to address these concerns, we’re now seeing noticeable improvements in the safety of many tenants’ homes."