We've had a printing issue with a small number of poll cards that have been issued for the Police, Fire & Crime Commissioner election on 2 May. If you receive a second poll card please destroy the first poll card you received, and use the second one. The replacement poll cards will be clearly marked to show you which one to retain. Please be reassured this will not affect anyone's ability to vote, or allow people to vote more than once. Whilst you can take your poll card to the polling station, remember you don't need it to vote, but you must remember to bring your voter ID. Thank you for your understanding.

HMO licences

Penalties for not getting a licence

It is an offence not to licence an HMO where a licence is needed.

The penalty for not licensing a HMO can be an unlimited fine, and the previous year’s rent can be re-claimed by any tenant (or the council where housing benefit is paid). This is called a rent repayment order.

Alternatively, you could receive a civil/financial penalty of up to £30,000 per offence.