Help create a fairer private rented sector in Westminster

Westminster City Council is 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 private rented homes that are occupied by a family or a maximum of two sharers. It is known as selective licensing.

The private rented sector (PRS) continues to grow across the country and Westminster has the largest PRS in England. 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.

In 2021, the council introduced a boroughwide additional houses in multiple occupation (HMO) licensing scheme to improve safety standards for tenants living in small HMOs. The council want to ensure the safety of more residents and are now proposing that privately rented homes of all types (not just HMOs) should be licensed in 15 wards across the borough. This will help the council to tackle poor housing conditions and antisocial behaviour in the PRS.

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

We know that most landlords and agents operating in Westminster provide homes that are safe, of a high standard and managed well. When properties are not safe and well managed, the impact upon the lives of tenants and the wider community can be detrimental. Sometimes this is because landlords are not aware of their responsibilities and sometimes this is because criminal landlords knowingly flout housing laws.

"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 from spring 2026.

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

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