Havering Council has officially launched two new private rented property licensing schemes.
The new selective licensing and the additional HMO licensing schemes, take effect from Wednesday 18 March 2026.
The schemes are designed to tackle poor housing conditions, reduce anti-social behaviour, crack down on rogue landlords, support compliant landlords and ensure that all privately rented homes are safe and well-managed.
The selective licensing scheme applies to all privately rented homes in the designated area that are let to single families or up to two unrelated tenants.
This scheme, which is in place in seven of Havering’s 20 wards, does not apply to houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) that are already licensed under existing schemes.
Additional HMO licensing applies to homes that are rented to three or four unrelated people that share amenities such as cooking and or washing facilities.
This scheme applies to all wards in the borough.
From Wednesday 18 March 2026, more landlords, lettings and managing agents operating in Havering, must apply for a licence to legally rent out their properties.
Councillor Barry Mugglestone, Cabinet Member for Environment, said:
"Havering has one of the largest private rented housing sectors in London and the number of people living in privately rented properties continues to grow.
“With the ongoing national housing crisis, an increased shortage of social housing, and home ownership unobtainable for many, it’s never been more important to ensure that private renters have access to safe, secure and decent homes.
“We know that that despite many landlords providing good quality and safe homes, too many residents are living in substandard and sometimes dangerous conditions.
“By expanding our private rented property licensing schemes, the Council can support more tenants and landlords to ensure safer, decent homes."
Under the new schemes, landlords must meet specific standards relating to property safety, tenancy agreements, and management practices.
Failure to comply could result in enforcement action, including fines or legal proceedings.
Full details on the schemes, how to apply for a licence and which areas are covered are on our property licensing page.