Selective Licensing in Acton, London: Does Your Property Qualify?

Landlords operating in Acton, a vibrant area within the London Borough of Ealing, must navigate a complex landscape of property licensing schemes designed to improve housing standards and tenant welfare. Ealing Council has implemented both selective licensing and additional licensing schemes, alongside the mandatory HMO licensing, impacting a significant portion of the private rented sector in Acton. These regulations aim to address issues such as poor property management and anti-social behaviour, ensuring that all privately rented homes meet specific safety and quality criteria.

Specifically, Acton is affected by two distinct selective licensing designations. The first, which commenced on 1 April 2022, covers properties in the East Acton ward. A subsequent and broader designation came into force on 3 January 2023, extending selective licensing requirements to properties within Acton Central and Perivale and South Acton wards. These schemes mandate that landlords of single-household properties in these designated areas obtain a licence, demonstrating compliance with a range of conditions set by the council. Failure to secure the appropriate licence can lead to substantial penalties, including unlimited fines and rent repayment orders.

What Landlords Need to Know

Landlords in Acton must proactively determine which licensing scheme, if any, applies to their property. The Ealing Council's selective licensing schemes in East Acton, Acton Central, and Perivale and South Acton specifically target single-household private rented properties. This means that even if your property is let to a single family, it may still require a licence if it falls within these designated wards. The council offers a postcode checker tool on its website, which is an essential first step for any landlord to ascertain their obligations. Additionally, properties classified as Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) may fall under either the additional or mandatory HMO licensing schemes, depending on the number of occupants and their relationship.

The licensing fee for selective licences is £750, payable in two instalments. Part A, £250, is due upon application submission, with Part B, £500, charged when the licence is ready for issue. Landlords who are accredited by recognised organisations, such as the London Landlord Accreditation Scheme (LLAS) or the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA), may be eligible for a £75 discount. A further £50 discount is available for properties with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of A-C. For landlords with multiple selective licence properties in the same building, a 10% discount on the total fee is applicable, though accredited landlord and EPC discounts apply only to the first flat.

Landlord Checklist

1. Verify your property's location: Use the Ealing Council postcode checker to confirm if your property falls within East Acton, Acton Central, or Perivale and South Acton wards, or if it is an HMO requiring additional or mandatory licensing.

2. Understand the specific scheme: Familiarise yourself with the conditions and requirements of the selective, additional HMO, or mandatory HMO licensing scheme applicable to your property.

3. Prepare your application: Gather all necessary documentation, including property details, tenancy agreements, gas safety certificates, electrical safety certificates, and EPCs.

4. Budget for fees: Be aware of the £750 selective licensing fee, or the relevant HMO licensing fee, and plan for the two-part payment structure. Explore eligibility for accredited landlord or EPC discounts.

5. Ensure property standards: Conduct a thorough inspection of your property to ensure it meets all required housing standards and safety regulations before applying.

6. Submit your application promptly: Apply for your licence as soon as possible to avoid penalties, especially if your property is already rented out in a designated area.

7. Maintain compliance: Once licensed, ensure ongoing adherence to all licence conditions, including property management, waste management, and anti-social behaviour policies.

It is crucial to note that operating an unlicensed private rented property in a designated selective licensing area of Acton is a criminal offence, carrying the risk of an unlimited fine and potential rent repayment orders.

Staying informed and compliant with Ealing Council's property licensing schemes is essential for landlords in Acton. For further details and to begin your application, please visit the Ealing Council's property licensing section on their official website.