From 24 November 2025, most privately rented homes in 15 Westminster wards will legally require a Selective Licence. Applications opened on 1 October 2025, and the scheme will run for five years, ending on 23 November 2030.
Who Needs a Licence?
A selective licence will be required if your property (not already licensed as an HMO) is let to:
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a single household (e.g. a family),
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a single tenant, or
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two sharers,
and is located in one of the designated wards.
If you already hold a valid HMO licence for your property, you will not also need a selective licence. Certain categories, such as local authority or registered provider stock and some student accommodation, are exempt.
Where Does It Apply?
Designation 1 (8 wards):
Abbey Road, Church Street, Harrow Road, Knightsbridge & Belgravia, Little Venice, Maida Vale, Queen’s Park, Westbourne
Designation 2 (7 wards):
Bayswater, Hyde Park, Lancaster Gate, Marylebone, Pimlico North, Regent’s Park, West End
Not included: Pimlico South, St James’s, Vincent Square (though HMO licensing still applies).
Key Dates
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1 October 2025 – Applications opened via the council’s online licensing portal
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24 November 2025 – Scheme goes live; operating without a licence becomes an offence
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24 November 2025 – 23 November 2030 – Scheme duration
Fees & Discounts
The standard fee is £995 per property, split into:
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Part A: £543 (on application)
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Part B: £452 (on grant)
Discounts available:
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10% off Part B for accredited landlords
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10% off Part B for EPC rating C
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20% off Part B for EPC rating B or above
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£125 off Part B for multiple units in the same block submitted together
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100% discount for registered charities housing vulnerable people
Licence Conditions – What You’ll Need to Evidence
To secure and maintain a licence, landlords must comply with a range of conditions, including:
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Annual Gas Safety Certificate (where applicable)
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EICR (electrical inspection) every 5 years
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Smoke alarms on every storey and carbon monoxide alarms where required
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Safe and well-maintained property condition
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Proper tenant referencing before granting a tenancy
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Adequate waste disposal arrangements and ASB management measures
A full list of conditions is published by Westminster City Council.
Enforcement & Penalties
Failing to comply carries significant risk. Landlords operating without a licence may face:
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Civil penalties of up to £30,000 per offence or prosecution
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Rent Repayment Orders (up to 12 months’ rent)
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Inability to serve a Section 21 notice while unlicensed
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Potential listing on the Rogue Landlord Database
Why Westminster Is Introducing This
The scheme is designed to raise standards in areas with poor housing conditions (Designation 1) and in areas affected by both poor housing and persistent anti-social behaviour (Designation 2). The objective is to improve management, protect tenants, and ensure a level playing field for responsible landlords.
How to Apply
Applications are now open via the Westminster licensing portal. We recommend applying as soon as possible to avoid backlogs. Preparing your safety certificates and supporting documents in advance will help streamline approval.
How Tuckerman Residential Can Help
We understand the complexities of licensing and compliance. Our team can:
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Confirm whether your property needs a selective licence (or HMO licence).
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Audit your documentation (Gas/EICR/EPC/alarms, tenancy agreements, ASB and waste plans).
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Submit applications on your behalf – including handling the paperwork and tracking progress – for an administration fee of £350 + VAT (in addition to the council’s fee).
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Advise on portfolio strategy, including discounts for accreditation, EPC ratings, and block submissions.
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Manage ongoing compliance and renewals.
Quick FAQs
Does this replace HMO licensing?
No. Mandatory and additional HMO licensing continue borough-wide. Selective licensing applies to non-HMO lets in the designated wards.
Will every flat in a block need its own licence?
Yes – one licence per dwelling, subject to exemptions and applicable discounts.
Is the scheme confirmed?
Yes – Westminster City Council confirmed the two designations on 24 June 2025. The scheme began accepting applications on 1 October 2025 and goes live on 24 November 2025, running for five years.
📞 Applications are now open. Contact Tuckerman Residential today to discuss your property, confirm what’s required, and ensure you remain compliant.
