East Staffordshire: Rental Licensing Schemes and Fees

East Staffordshire Borough Council operates a Selective Licensing scheme known as EASTSTAFFSEL, which means certain privately rented properties within designated areas of the borough require a licence to operate legally. This initiative aims to improve housing standards, ensure effective management of rental properties, and address issues such as anti-social behaviour, contributing to safer and better-maintained communities for residents and tenants alike. Landlords with properties in the specified areas must comply with the scheme's requirements to avoid penalties.

What is Selective Licensing?

Selective Licensing is a regulatory tool used by local authorities in the UK to improve the management of privately rented properties in areas experiencing particular problems. These problems can include low housing demand, significant anti-social behaviour, or poor property conditions. Under a Selective Licensing scheme, all privately rented properties within a designated area, regardless of the number of occupants, must be licensed by the council. The primary goal is to ensure that landlords are 'fit and proper' persons and that properties meet certain management and safety standards. This helps to protect tenants, improve local neighbourhoods, and hold landlords accountable for their responsibilities.

Which properties need a licence in East Staffordshire?

In East Staffordshire, properties that fall within the designated areas of the EASTSTAFFSEL Selective Licensing scheme are required to have a licence. Generally, this applies to all privately rented residential properties occupied by one or two households, or single individuals, that are not already subject to mandatory HMO (Houses in Multiple Occupation) licensing. The specific streets or wards covered by the scheme are defined by the council. Landlords should verify if their property is located within these designated areas. A property typically needs a licence if it is rented out, is not an HMO requiring a mandatory licence, and is situated within the geographical boundaries of the Selective Licensing area as determined by East Staffordshire Borough Council. It is crucial for landlords to understand these boundaries to ensure compliance.

How to check if your property needs a licence

To determine if your property in East Staffordshire requires a Selective Licence, the most efficient method is to use the property search tool available on tuxa.co.uk. By entering the property's full address, you can quickly ascertain its licensing status. Additionally, East Staffordshire Borough Council's official website provides detailed information, including maps of the designated Selective Licensing areas and comprehensive guidance for landlords. It is always advisable to cross-reference information and, if in doubt, contact the council's housing or private sector housing team directly for clarification. Early verification can prevent potential non-compliance issues.

Penalties for non-compliance

Operating a privately rented property that requires a licence under the East Staffordshire Selective Licensing scheme without one is a serious offence. Landlords found to be non-compliant can face significant penalties. These may include a civil penalty notice of up to £30,000 per offence, or in more severe cases, an unlimited fine if the matter is prosecuted in a magistrates' court. Furthermore, councils can issue Rent Repayment Orders, compelling landlords to repay up to 12 months' rent to tenants, and may also prevent landlords from managing other properties. Non-compliance can also affect a landlord's ability to obtain future licences and may lead to inclusion on a national database of rogue landlords.

Apply for a licence

Landlords whose properties fall within the East Staffordshire Selective Licensing scheme must apply for a licence directly through East Staffordshire Borough Council. The application process typically involves completing an application form, providing supporting documentation, and paying the relevant fee. Information regarding the application process, required documents, and current fees can be found on the council's official website. It is recommended to begin the application process well in advance of any deadlines to ensure continuous compliance. The council's private sector housing team can offer guidance and support throughout the application process.

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This page was researched and written by the Tuxa editorial team. Our data is sourced directly from local authority websites, MHCLG scheme designation orders, and the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA). We update our content when councils announce new schemes or enforcement actions. If you spot an error or out-of-date information, please contact us.

Last reviewed: March 2026

Related Guides

• What Is Selective Licensing? A Complete Guide for UK Landlords
• Selective vs Additional Licensing: What Is the Difference?
• Rental Licensing Fines: What UK Landlords Need to Know
• How to Stay Compliant with HMO Licensing
• Active licensing consultations and upcoming scheme changes