Matt Noble

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A LICENSING scheme for all private rented homes is to be trialled in 15 wards of Westminster borough, according to plans aimed at tackling uncaring landlords.

The scheme, known as selective licensing, would apply to private rented homes occupied by a family or a maximum of two sharers.

The council suggests the licensing move will help it “tackle poor housing conditions and anti-social behaviour” in the private rented sector.

Tenants, landlords, property agents, anyone with experience or an interest in the private rented housing sector, are being asked to respond to a consultation.

Labour’s Matt Noble (above), who leads on renters and regeneration, said: “We know that most landlords and agents operating in Westminster provide homes that are safe, of a high standard, and managed well.

“When properties are not safe and well managed, the impact upon the lives of tenants and the wider community can be detrimental.

“Sometimes this is because landlords are not aware of their responsibilities and sometimes this is because criminal landlords knowingly flout housing laws. We want to ensure that all private rented properties are operating legally and are, above all else, safe. Before any decisions are made, we need the views of everyone in the borough, especially those that live in a private rented home.”

The city council says it needs to make changes as Westminster has the largest private rented sector of anywhere in the country.

In 2021 the authority introduced a borough-wide additional houses in multiple occupation licens-ing scheme to improve safety standards for tenants living in small HMOs.

It wants to ensure the safety of more residents and is now proposing that privately rented homes of all types – not just HMOs – should be licensed in the 15 wards across the borough.

Consultation on the scheme, which could come into effect from spring 2026, runs until January 19.