North East Landlords Express Frustration Over Stockton’s Selective Licensing Scheme

Summary: Landlords in Stockton-on-Tees have criticised the selective licensing scheme introduced in May 2024, describing it as ineffective and damaging to the local rental market. Despite the council’s efforts to improve housing standards, many landlords report increased evictions and a rise in low housing demand, raising concerns about the scheme’s overall impact.

Background of the Selective Licensing Scheme

In May 2024, Stockton-on-Tees Council approved a selective licensing scheme covering central Stockton, north Thornaby, and Newtown. The scheme requires landlords to obtain a licence to let their properties within these areas, aiming to improve housing conditions and tackle issues such as anti-social behaviour and poor property management.

Since its introduction, the council has received over 1,400 licence applications, with more than 1,000 granted so far. The authority continues to assess the remaining applications and has been actively inspecting properties to enforce compliance.

Landlord Opposition and Concerns

From the outset, the scheme has faced significant opposition from landlords. A consultation revealed that only 3% of landlords supported the licensing initiative, highlighting widespread dissatisfaction within the local landlord community.

One landlord, Aman Khurram, expressed his frustration bluntly, stating: “Selective licensing is just a cash cow for the council. At least Dick Turpin had the decency to wear a mask.” This sentiment reflects a broader feeling among landlords that the scheme is more about generating revenue than delivering tangible improvements.

Another landlord, Khalid Hussain, criticised the scheme’s impact on tenants, saying: “Lots of tenants have been evicted because of the new schemes. Well done Stockton Council. Another self-induced own goal.”

Additionally, an anonymous landlord noted that many landlords are choosing to sell their properties and evict tenants due to the scheme’s pressures. They remarked: “We now have more ‘low housing demand’ in the area than before, but that was why the council brought the scheme out, saying they would solve it. Quite ironic really. An exercise in futility.”

Council’s Position and Enforcement Actions

Despite the criticism, Councillor Richard Eglington, cabinet member for regeneration and housing, maintains that the scheme is making a positive difference. He emphasised: “Under the scheme we are able to protect and help tenants where property conditions have fallen short. There’s strong evidence for the benefits selective licensing brings, and the scheme is in line with government guidance.”

The council has been actively investigating compliance, with over 300 potentially unlicensed properties under scrutiny. By the end of October 2025, 243 inspections had been carried out, and the council plans to increase these inspections alongside interventions to address anti-social behaviour. So far, 130 property improvement plans have been issued to landlords requiring remedial work.

Implications for Landlords in Stockton and Beyond

Selective licensing schemes like Stockton’s are designed to raise standards in the private rented sector by ensuring landlords meet minimum property and management requirements. However, the reaction from landlords highlights the challenges such schemes can pose, including increased administrative burdens and potential financial costs.

For landlords, it is essential to understand the requirements of selective licensing and ensure timely application for licences to avoid penalties. Moreover, maintaining property standards and engaging proactively with tenants can help mitigate risks associated with enforcement actions.

Local authorities across England have varying approaches to selective licensing, and landlords should stay informed about any schemes affecting their properties. The experience in Stockton serves as a reminder of the importance of compliance and the potential consequences of non-compliance.

Conclusion

While Stockton-on-Tees Council asserts that its selective licensing scheme is improving tenant protection and housing standards, many landlords remain sceptical about its effectiveness. The reported increase in evictions and low housing demand raises questions about the scheme’s impact on the local rental market. Landlords in the area and elsewhere should monitor developments closely and ensure they meet all licensing obligations to avoid enforcement action.

Keywords: selective licensing, landlord compliance, tenant protection, property standards, rental market