Rental Property Licensing in Brent

Brent is one of the most densely rented boroughs in London. Areas like Wembley, Harlesden, Willesden, and Kilburn have large concentrations of privately rented properties, and the council has responded with an active licensing regime that affects a significant proportion of landlords operating in the borough.

Selective licensing in Brent

Brent operates two selective licensing scheme designations. The first scheme (Designation 1/2023) came into force on 1 April 2023 and covers a wide range of wards across the borough. The second designation (Designation 2/2023) also came into force on 1 April 2023 and covers additional areas. Together, the two schemes mean that a large number of privately rented properties in Brent require a selective licence, regardless of the number of occupants.

A selective licence is required for any privately rented property within the designated areas that is not already subject to a mandatory or additional HMO licence. Landlords who fail to obtain the required licence face civil penalties of up to £30,000 or prosecution.

Additional licensing for HMOs in Brent

Brent also operates an additional licensing scheme for houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) that fall outside the scope of mandatory HMO licensing. This covers smaller HMOs occupied by three or more people forming two or more households. The additional licensing scheme runs alongside the selective licensing schemes, so landlords of HMOs in Brent must check which licence type applies to their property.

Mandatory HMO licensing

Any property in Brent occupied by five or more people forming two or more households, with shared facilities, is subject to mandatory HMO licensing under national legislation. This applies across the whole borough, not just in designated areas.

How to apply

Applications for selective and additional licences in Brent are made through the council's online portal. The licence fee varies depending on the scheme and the type of applicant. Licences are typically granted for a period of five years, subject to the landlord meeting the fit and proper person requirements and the property meeting the required standards.

For the most current information on designated areas, fees, and application requirements, visit the London Borough of Brent licensing page.