LANDLORDS are being advised to attend a meeting about new housing laws to safeguard them against fines of up to £20,000.
A health and safety ratings system will come into effect under the Housing Act 2004 to enable the council to keep a close eye on the worst maintained properties.
The Act, which comes into effect next April, will also require landlords to licence shared accommodation with five or more dwellers.
Gravesham Council's lead member for housing and neighbourhood renewal, Councillor Ernie Brook, said: "Under this new legislation, any landlord who is liable for licensing but doesn't comply could incur significant financial penalties of up to £20,000.
"So landlords should come along and find out what they need to know if they want to avoid any unnecessary costs."
Council officials from across Kent and other groups will be holding two meetings on November 24 to advise landlords on the new legislation.
The venue is the Ramada Hotel, Hollingbourne, Maidstone, with meetings starting at 2pm and 7pm.
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