New Westminster Licensing Scheme: here’s what landlords need to know 

Westminster’s new Selective Licensing Scheme – what is it? 

Westminster City Council has announced a significant new regulatory measure affecting private landlords across the borough. From 24 November 2025, a comprehensive selective licensing scheme will come into force, covering 15 of Westminster’s 18 wards. 

This wide-ranging initiative will require landlords of most privately rented properties to obtain a licence or face substantial penalties. The scheme applies to properties rented to single tenants, single households, or two individuals sharing accommodation. 

Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) are excluded from this new requirement as they already fall under existing mandatory and additional licensing schemes within the borough. 

Key dates and requirements 

Landlords should note these timings: 

• Scheme effective date: 24 November 2025 

• Applications can be submitted now and no later than the effective date 

The Council has indicated that failure to secure appropriate licensing could result in civil penalties of up to £30,000 per property.  

What’s the aim for this new licencing scheme? 

The City of Westminster states that the Selective Property Licensing scheme is aimed at tackling poor housing conditions and reducing anti-social behaviour by targeting rogue landlords and bringing substandard properties up to acceptable living standards. 

It can also offer several benefits to landlords, such as reducing unfair competition and attracting long term tenants.  

Next steps 

Landlords with properties in Westminster should: 

• Determine if their properties fall within the 15 affected wards 

• Review current tenancy arrangements to confirm if licensing will be required 

• Prepare necessary documentation  

• Consider seeking assistance from a professional estate agent who can manage this on your behalf 

How Cluttons can help 

If you would like to discuss how this new scheme may affect your property, please don’t hesitate to contact Chris Morris, head of London lettings.

Compliance notice 

In the event that you already have a contract with another estate agent for the marketing of your property, you are advised to consult the terms of the agreement with that estate agent as you could be liable for double commission. The information provided in this article is the sole property of Cluttons LLP and provides basic information and not legal advice. It must not be copied, reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, either in whole or in part, without the prior written consent of Cluttons LLP. The information contained in this article has been obtained from sources generally regarded to be reliable, and we believe the data to be correct at the time of writing. However, no representation is made, or warranty given, in respect of the accuracy of this information. For information purposes only, you are advised to seek your own independent legal advice where necessary.