From July 1 most privately rented properties in Lewisham, south London, will need a property licence. 

With one in four households in Lewisham renting privately the council claims the new scheme will help it “ensure landlords are providing safe and decent quality homes and fair treatment for renters.”

The new scheme will cover an additional 20,000 properties in the borough, which are not included in existing licensing schemes for HMOs.

The new scheme was approved by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities in November 2023. 

To obtain a licence, properties will need to certify that they meet minimum health and safety standards. Landlords who fail to fulfil their statutory responsibilities, such as carrying out repairs in a timely fashion, will be subject to enforcement action. 

The council claims it will work closely with landlords and tenants in the borough to ensure they are aware of their responsibilities and rights under the scheme. 

Selective licensing is only introduced in areas where the council can evidence that it is necessary.

Councillor Will Cooper, Cabinet Member for Better Homes, Neighbourhoods and Homelessness, says: “Selective licensing will ensure Lewisham’s privately rented housing is of a higher standard and comes with better security for renters, who make up a quarter of residents in our borough. 

“Everyone deserves a safe and decent place to call home, and this scheme will support the Council to take meaningful action against landlords who fail to fulfil their responsibilities. 

“20,000 additional properties in Lewisham will now be subject to improved standards and reduced antisocial behaviour, making Lewisham a fairer and more enjoyable place to live.”