Greenwich Property Licensing: Which Schemes Apply to You?

As a landlord in the Royal Borough of Greenwich, the single most important fact you need to know is that all Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) across the entire borough require an Additional Licence from January 1, 2024. This is a significant change, expanding licensing requirements beyond specific areas and impacting a broad range of rental properties.

Understanding Greenwich's Licensing Schemes

Greenwich operates two distinct property licensing schemes: a Selective Licensing scheme targeting specific wards and a borough-wide Additional Licensing scheme for HMOs. Navigating these can be complex, but understanding which applies to your property is fundamental to compliance.

Selective Licensing Scheme

This scheme, which commenced on October 1, 2022, and runs until October 1, 2027, applies to all privately rented properties within designated areas. These areas are specifically chosen due to concerns over property management and housing conditions. If your property is located in one of these wards, it will require a Selective Licence, regardless of whether it's an HMO or a single-family dwelling.

Designated Wards for Selective Licensing:

* Woolwich Common

* Plumstead Common

* Glyndon

Additional Licensing Scheme

From January 1, 2024, until December 31, 2028, the Royal Borough of Greenwich's Additional Licensing scheme mandates that all Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) throughout the entire borough must be licensed. This means if your property is rented out to three or more tenants forming two or more households, and they share facilities like a kitchen or bathroom, it falls under this scheme. This is a broad expansion, ensuring greater oversight of HMOs across Greenwich.

Scheme Timelines at a Glance

Licensing Fees in Greenwich

The cost of obtaining a property licence in Greenwich is a significant consideration for landlords. Fees are typically structured to cover the council's administrative costs for processing applications, inspecting properties, and enforcing standards. Based on recent information, licence fees in Greenwich generally range from approximately £750 to £1,100 per property. It's important to note that these figures are approximate, and the exact fee can vary based on factors such as the type of licence, the size of the property, and whether you are a new applicant or renewing an existing licence. Always consult the official Greenwich Council website for the most current fee schedule.

What this means for your property

Consider a landlord who owns a three-bedroom flat in Woolwich Common, rented to a family. This property would require a Selective Licence due to its location within a designated ward. Now, imagine the same landlord also owns a four-bedroom house in Greenwich, rented to four unrelated students. As of January 1, 2024, this property, being an HMO, would require an Additional Licence, irrespective of its specific ward, because the Additional Licensing scheme is borough-wide. This illustrates how a single landlord might need to navigate both schemes depending on their property portfolio and locations within Greenwich.

The ongoing regeneration around the Woolwich Arsenal area, coupled with a growing private rented sector, means that the council is actively monitoring rental properties to maintain housing standards. This context underscores the importance of compliance, as enforcement efforts are likely to be robust in areas experiencing significant development and increased rental demand.

How to apply

Applying for a property licence in Greenwich involves several key steps:

1. Determine the correct scheme: Use the council's online tools or contact their housing team to confirm whether your property falls under Selective or Additional Licensing, or both.

2. Gather required documents: This typically includes floor plans, gas safety certificates, electrical safety certificates, EPCs, tenancy agreements, and details of property management arrangements.

3. Complete the application form: The Royal Borough of Greenwich provides an online application portal. Ensure all sections are filled accurately and completely.

4. Pay the fee: The application fee must be paid as part of the submission process. Be aware of the approximate costs (£750-£1,100) and budget accordingly.

5. Await inspection and approval: After submission, the council may arrange an inspection of your property. Ensure your property meets all health and safety standards.

It is advisable to start the application process well in advance of any scheme deadlines to avoid penalties.

Check your specific property

To confirm the exact licensing requirements for your rental property in the Royal Borough of Greenwich, use our search tool. This will provide you with precise information based on your property's address and characteristics, ensuring you remain compliant with local regulations.