LANDLORDS in south Warwickshire are being advised rented property may have to be licensed following a change in law.

The move will mean they will not be able to charge rent - and this particularly applies in large houses where tenants who are not related but live together and share facilities.

Stratford District Council will have to licence certain houses in this category, which is required by the new law coming into effect in April.

All properties which are three floors or more in height, have five of more people who are not related to each other and share any facilities must be licensed.

Shared facilities include areas such as kitchens, common rooms, bathrooms and also includes properties with shops and offices.

Properties not covered by the new law include those owned by a housing association or trust.

Anyone who is unsure if their property needs to be licensed, or if they would like a guide to the new laws, can call the council on 01789 260819.