Article 4 - shared properties may need planning permission
Tuesday, May 3rd, 2011Shared houses and flats may need planning permission in future where a local Council makes an Article 4 Direction in its area.
Existing shared houses have established use and are not affected. But you could lose the right to rent your property as a shared house or flat if you let it to a family or if it is a holiday let.
The arguments began with “Studentification” but the regulations introduced on October 1st 2010, affect all shared houses, flats and bedsits with between 3 and 6 occupiers who are not related to each other.
Article 4 directions by local councils discriminate against students and other young people wanting to rent shared houses and flats.
Normally the Council will give one year’s notice before an Article 4 Direction is effective.
The RLA believes these measures are generally the wrong legislation to deal with social problems perceived by other residents.
