Westminster City Council has introduced a new selective licensing scheme for all privately rented properties in designated areas of Westminster (excluding HMOs already covered by existing mandatory or additional licensing schemes).
All owners or managers of privately rented properties in Westminster must complete the following before 24th November 2025 –
The application can be submitted by the owner/landlord directly or through a managing agent and they will be named on the licence. The individual named on the licence must be considered “fit and proper” and have control of the property.
The licence must be renewed every 5 years, or sooner if there is a change in property manager or owner. The licence is non-transferable.
Selective licensing is a legal requirement for landlords to obtain a licence for each privately rented property they own in designated areas. The aim is to improve property conditions and raise standards for tenants, particularly in areas with poor housing conditions.
To check if your property falls within the designated licensing area, use the official Westminster property licensing map: https://lbhf.maps.arcgis.com/apps/instant/lookup/index.html?appid=b5e533a69821405da1c54f7fe3fef4fe
The licence comes with a comprehensive set of conditions, many of which should already be familiar to compliant landlords.
While the licence conditions seem onerous, most requirements are already set out in the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 and under typical Head Lease agreements for leaseholders. In practice, the new scheme formalises these standards and introduces a licensing fee, which some see as an additional cost for landlords.
Failure to obtain a licence or comply with its conditions can result in severe penalties, which will be payable by the Property Owner, including:
Alongside the new licensing scheme, the Renters Right Act 2025 has recently been approved which has some key terms including the abolition of the no-fault Section 21 evictions, end of fixed term tenancies and a ban on rent bidding wars meaning that you can’t rent your property for a higher rent than is initially advertised for. The first changes will be implemented in Spring 2026.
Between the above two new regulations, it is becoming increasingly challenging for landlords in the UK. Whilst there are strict penalties for landlords who fail to meet these new regulations, there are currently no equivalent penalties for tenants who do not cooperate, nor clear guidelines for landlords to remove tenants who hinder compliance.
How We Can Help You
Suntera Global works with a highly experienced team of property managers in the UK who are ready to help you meet every requirement set out in the Westminster licensing scheme. Our concierge service can manage the registration process on your behalf or coordinate with a trusted property management company, ensuring everything is handled professionally and securely.
To learn more or discuss your requirements, get in touch through our Contact page.
MANAGER
ISLE OF MAN
Emma joined Suntera Global in 2011 and is primarily responsible for administering real estate holding companies. With a wealth of expertise in commercial and residential property, Emma has a portfolio spanning several jurisdictions, including the UK and Japan, and is a key contributor to Suntera Global’s concierge services offering for private clients.
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