LANDLORDS in Hillingdon will need to apply for a licence to let out their properties legally from April this year.

The news comes following new legislation (Housing Act 2004), that says every local council must introduce a licensing scheme covering buildings of a certain size and occupancy.

Landlords who do not apply successfully could face heavy fines and potential loss of rent.

The measure, which comes into force on April 6, 2006, has been introduced to ensure the landlord or manager is fit and proper and to ensure the health and safety of occupants.

West London boroughs are taking the lead in promoting the new legislation to landlords and tenants' representatives, and the West London Housing Partnership, which includes Hillingdon, Brent, Ealing, Hammersmith and Fulham, Harrow, Hounslow and The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, has launched a major publicity drive. Two public meetings have taken place in Hammersmith recently targeted at interested parties.

Debbie Ricketts, chair of the partnership, said: "Both these events were a great success. Over a hundred landlords attended the event and we were able to open a really useful dialogue with them.

"Those who came now have a leading advantage, as they have three months to plan any changes required to ensure their private, rented properties will be fully compliant when the law changes."

Jacky Peacock, director of Brent Private Tenants' Group, said: "The tenants' meeting was also very encouraging.

"While some tenants remained sceptical about whether the new law will really improve the management of their homes, almost all were keen to establish a West London network of private tenants so they can keep in touch with events and provide mutual support.

"Licensing of houses in multiple occupation could be the trigger that brings the private tenants' movement together, and helps in the drive for sustainable communities."

The Housing Act 2004 contains provisions for licensing of houses in multiple occupation, which generally is bedsits and houses where unrelated tenants share facilities.

Under new legislation, councils must introduce a licensing scheme covering buildings of three or more storeys that house five or more people, who form two or more households, and share amenities