What is Selective Licensing
Selective licensing is a scheme used by local authorities in England to improve the management and condition of privately rented properties in specific areas. The council may make designations in areas where problems related to;
- Low housing demand (or is likely to become such an area)
- A significant and persistent problem caused by anti-social behaviour
- Poor housing conditions
- High levels of migration
- High level of deprivation
- High levels of crime
are prevalent, and in cases 3 to 6, have high levels of private rented properties.
Under this scheme, all landlords who are not exempt and rent out property in the designated area, are legally required to obtain a Licence from the council for each rental property, unless it is already licenced as a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO). You can view further details regarding exemptions through the following link: Further Information about exemptions
To be granted a licence, the landlord must meet specific "fit and proper person" criteria, pay a fee to cover the council's administration and enforcement costs and demonstrate they have appropriate management arrangements in place.
The licence typically lasts for five years and contains specific conditions which require the licence holder to manage their properties professionally.
Failure to licence a privately rented property can result in significant penalties, including fines of up to £30,000 or prosecution.
