Don’t miss your chance to help create a fairer private rented sector

Hundreds have taken part – have you? Don’t miss your chance to have your say.

Westminster City Council recently launched a consultation inviting tenants, landlords, property agents and anyone with experience or an interest in the private rented housing sector to have their say on the council’s proposals to introduce a new property licensing scheme in parts of the city.

The scheme, if approved, would apply to all private rented properties, excluding HMOs in 15 wards across the borough. It is known as selective licensing and will help support the council’s commitment to ensuring that all homes in Westminster are safe, in good condition and well managed, helping to create a fairer private rented housing sector.

Councillor Matt Noble, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Renters, said

“The private rented housing sector continues to grow, and in Westminster, we have the largest private rented sector in the country.

“With the ongoing national housing crisis, an increased shortage of social housing and home ownership unobtainable for many, private rented housing is often the only viable option.

“We want to ensure that all private rented properties are operating legally and, above all else, safe.

“Before any decisions are made, we need the views of everyone in the borough, especially those that live in a private rented home.”

Westminster City Council is consulting about a licensing scheme which, if it is introduced, could come into effect late 2025. Before any decisions are made, the council must consider the feedback received through the consultation process. To date, the council have received numerous responses, but they are keen to hear from more people. Learning about the experiences and views of people living, working or studying near private rented homes is important to find out where change is needed. The council are also keen to hear from organisations that regularly work with anyone living in private rented housing, who have knowledge of the conditions that families and individuals living in the sector are experiencing.

The consultation runs until 19 January 2025, and everyone can share their views by visiting www.westminster.gov.uk/prs

Paper copies are available at libraries throughout the city and can be requested by emailing [email protected] or calling 020 7641 6161