Westminster City Council has announced the implementation of a new Selective Licensing Scheme for privately rented homes, which will impact the rental sector across the large London region.

The new scheme, set to cover 15 of the city’s 18 wards, will apply to all privately rented properties excluding Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) that are already covered under existing mandatory and additional licensing schemes.

The local authority says this decisive move 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.

Westminster City Council undertook a statutory consultation process before approving the scheme, as revealed in October last year.

The council commissioned Cadence Innova, an independent consultancy with expertise in public sector engagement, to carry out an extensive series of consultation activities. These included outreach with landlords, tenants, residents, and other key stakeholders. Cadence Innova has independently reviewed and reported on the responses and findings from the consultation.

Cllr Matt Noble, cabinet member for regeneration and renters, said: “The Selective Licensing Scheme is about supporting responsible landlords and ensuring that every resident in Westminster has access to safe, secure, and well-maintained housing. We’re focused on improving living conditions, not only to protect tenants but also to support landlords who do the right thing.”

Once the decision becomes effective, the council will formally designate the selective licensing areas. The local authority says full details, including the scheme’s start date and guidance on when and how landlords can apply for licences, will be published in due course.