News
Green light for new selective licensing scheme in Brent
Landlords renting out homes in the Brent Council wards of Dollis Hill, Willesden Green and Harlesden & Kensal Green will legally be required to have a licence from 1 August 2023 after Brent’s cabinet voted in favour of introducing a new selective licensing scheme.
The three wards were selected following a public consultation from 31 October 2022 to 23 January 2023 (read here).
A report to cabinet members explained that implementing a new selective licensing scheme would have a positive impact on poor property conditions and high levels of antisocial behaviour in the three areas. Dollis Hill, Willesden Green and Harlesden & Kensal Green all have high levels of private rented homes, well above the national average.
Councillor Promise Knight, Brent’s Cabinet Member for Housing, Homelessness and Renters’ Security said:
“Today’s decision is good news for both renters and landlords. It is much easier to rectify property issues under the legal framework of the licensing scheme, and when the landlord and other property management companies are known to the council.
“Landlords who fail to licence their properties could receive a civil penalty fine of up to £30,000 or even a criminal conviction. But we have found that most landlords want to work in the best interests of their tenants and are happy to cooperate with a scheme that makes sure that renters live in well-maintained and managed homes.“
Under the selective licensing scheme, landlords of privately rented homes within the designated area will be required to submit a separate licence application for each property.
Previous licensing schemes
Brent Council previously had a selective licensing scheme covering the council wards of Dudden Hill, Kensal Green, Kilburn, Mapesbury and Queen’s Park, but that scheme ended on 30 April 2023.
An earlier selective licensing scheme covering the council wards of Harlesden, Wembley Central and Willesden Green ended on 31 December 2019.
Brent Council also operate mandatory HMO and additional licensing schemes that have extended licensing to all houses in multiple occupation.
Our free guide containing more information about property licensing and HMO planning restrictions in the London Borough of Brent is available here.
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