London’s Havering Council is set to significantly expand its selective licensing scheme for privately rented properties starting in March 2025. This move follows similar initiatives by other London boroughs and aims to improve housing standards and tenant safety, which is crucial information for landlords managing properties in the area.

Selective Licensing Expansion in Havering

Havering Council will extend its selective licensing framework to cover all privately let properties in parts of the borough not already subject to mandatory or additional HMO licensing controls. The new scheme will include areas such as Beam Park, Harold Wood, Rainham & Wennington, Rush Green & Crowlands, Squirrels Heath, St Alban’s, and St Edwards. This expansion comes as the current selective licensing scheme, which has operated across three wards, is due to end in January 2025.

The council’s decision aligns with recent similar measures taken by Wandsworth, Islington, and Westminster City Councils, as well as consultation processes underway in Croydon and Enfield. For landlords, this means that more properties will require licensing, increasing the need to ensure compliance with local regulations.

Council’s Position on Landlords and Licensing

Councillor Ray Morgon, leader of Havering Council, emphasised the council’s commitment to protecting residents and supporting responsible landlords. He acknowledged that many landlords already maintain good standards but noted that the licensing scheme is designed to create a level playing field by targeting those who fail to comply. Councillor Morgon stated, “We want those landlords who don’t comply, to know we will take the strongest action against them.”

The council highlighted that Havering has some of the highest levels of private renting compared to other London boroughs. The licensing schemes aim to raise property standards, tackle poor management, and ensure safe, secure, and well-maintained homes for tenants.

Introduction of Borough-wide Additional HMO Licensing

In addition to the selective licensing expansion, Havering Council will introduce a borough-wide additional HMO licensing regime from March 2025. This new regime will replace the existing scheme covering six wards, which remains in place until early 2026. The council has indicated that this approach focuses on improving housing conditions and reducing anti-social behaviour, while also ensuring stronger compliance from private landlords.

Implications for Landlords in Havering

Landlords operating in the affected areas should prepare for the new licensing requirements, which will involve applying for licences and adhering to the council’s standards for property management. Failure to comply could result in enforcement action. The expanded scheme reflects a growing trend among London boroughs to regulate the private rented sector more closely, aiming to protect tenants and raise housing quality.

Landlords may wish to review their current property management practices and ensure all necessary licences are obtained ahead of the March 2025 implementation date. This will help avoid penalties and contribute to maintaining a positive reputation in the local rental market.

Further information about the licensing schemes is available through Havering Council’s landlord licensing service.

TLA Trusted Partners Hub Launching in 2026

The Landlord Association (TLA) is launching a new Trusted Partners Hub in the first quarter of 2026. This platform will feature verified and approved service providers selected to support landlords, tenants, and property management businesses. Legal, trades, insurance, financial, mortgage, tenant screening, and other service providers are invited to register their interest to become TLA service partners. This initiative aims to provide landlords with reliable resources to help navigate regulatory changes such as Havering’s licensing expansions.