Westminster City Council has announced plans to implement a selective landlord licensing scheme across much of the borough.
Following a public consultation exercise from 28 October 2024 to 19 January 2025, plans for new selective licensing schemes were approved at the council’s Cabinet meeting on 19 May 2025.
Westminster already operates mandatory HMO and additional landlord licensing schemes boroughwide.
Two new selective licensing designations will come into force on 24 November 2025. The designations will extend licensing to all private rented homes occupied by a single household or two unrelated sharers in fifteen of the council’s 18 wards. The only council wards excluded from the scheme are Pimlico South, St James’ and Vincent Square.
The council have said this new selective licensing schemes will help to ensure private tenants live in properties that are safe, secure, and well-maintained.
Councillor Ellie Ormsby, Westminster’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Renters, said:
“This scheme is about raising standards in the private rented sector and making sure every tenant has access to a safe, secure, and decent home. Too many residents are still living in poor conditions, and that’s simply not acceptable.
“We’re committed to driving improvements across the board and supporting landlords through this process, providing practical guidance to ensure all homes in Westminster meet the standards our communities deserve.”
Westminster has one of the largest private rented sectors in England, and with growing demand for affordable housing, the council says it is vital to ensure private rented homes are properly managed and maintained.
The council have said they intend to host a series of information sessions to support landlords and offer practical advice ahead of the licensing scheme rollout.
London Property Licensing has been told landlords can submit selective licence applications from 1 October 2025. The selective licence fee will be £995 per property, which is currently the highest selective licensing fee in London. Fee discounts will be available for accredited landlords and agents, energy efficient properties and landlords submitting multiple applications is one freehold block.
More information about the scheme, including eligibility and fee discounts can be found by visiting the council’s website.
Our free guide containing more information about property licensing and HMO planning restrictions in Westminster is available here.
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