Council tackles complaints about 561 unauthorised To Let boards

The city council in Nottingham claims it has taken action against no fewer than 561 unauthorised To Let boards under powers given to it by the government.

Since 2012 the government has granted the council Regulation 7 Direction powers to control the use of letting boards outside individual houses and blocks of flats following complaints from residents.

In 2016 Letting Agent Today reported that in addition to the powers, the council had written to agents and landlords warning that repeat offenders erecting or leaving boards in unauthorised locations would be prosecuted.

As a result the council carried out eight successful prosecutions against companies and individuals with a history of failing to comply with the direction in previous years.

A statement from the council says For Sale boards and lettings on other forms of premises, such as commercial properties, are not included.

The authority says the “over-use” of To Let boards can become unattractive eyesores and give many streets a cluttered appearance, creating a poor impression of the area. This is particularly an issue in neighbourhoods containing lots of private rental properties, mostly catering for the student market. 

Letting boards can also attract burglars, which can lead to a rise in crime and cause safety concerns.

In the past five years some 561 non-compliant boards were reported to the council. Most were removed as a result of council intervention.

The new powers come into effect next Monday.