New landlord rental licensing scheme launches next week

New borough-wide licensing for all landlords renting out properties in Brent, northwest London, will be come into force next week.

Every privately rented property in Brent, except for Wembley Park, will be legally required to apply for a licence on 1 April.

Cllr Promise Knight, cabinet member for Housing, Homelessness and Renters’ Security, said: “This is a scheme that will bring about positive living standard improvements for private renters who make up half of all Brent residents. It will also give landlords and agents complete clarity on their responsibilities regarding property management and safety.

“The introduction of selective licensing across Brent will offer renters the assurance of security and safety when it comes to their homes. We will continue to work in partnership with good professional landlords to help them comply with regulations. But any landlord who ignores the law should be aware that that there will be nowhere in Brent for them to hide.”

In 2023, the council issued its first banning order against a landlord, preventing him from letting houses in England for five years. Brent has also licenced more homes of multiple occupation than any other London borough and has one of the most proactive enforcement teams in the capital.