Merton Property Licensing: Which Schemes Apply to You?

As of September 24, 2023, landlords in specific areas of Merton must comply with new property licensing requirements. Merton Council simultaneously introduced both Selective Licensing and Additional Licensing schemes, a notable approach that impacts different types of rental properties across several wards in the borough. This means that if you own a private rented property or an HMO in Figges Marsh, Lavender Fields, Abbey, or Cricket Green, you likely need to secure a license.

Merton Property Licensing Schemes Explained

Merton's licensing schemes are designed to improve housing standards and management in the private rented sector. It's important to understand which scheme applies to your property, as the requirements differ.

Selective Licensing

The Selective Licensing scheme in Merton applies to all privately rented properties, regardless of whether they are Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) or single-family dwellings, within the following wards:

* Figges Marsh (Mitcham area)

* Lavender Fields (Mitcham area)

This scheme commenced on September 24, 2023, and is set to run until September 23, 2028. It's crucial to note that properties in other parts of Merton, such as Wimbledon, Raynes Park, and Morden, are not currently subject to Selective Licensing.

Additional Licensing

The Additional Licensing scheme targets Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) that are not already covered by mandatory HMO licensing. In Merton, this scheme extends beyond the Selective Licensing areas to include additional wards. The Additional Licensing scheme covers HMOs in:

* Figges Marsh

* Lavender Fields

* Abbey

* Cricket Green

Like the Selective Licensing scheme, the Additional Licensing scheme also began on September 24, 2023, and will conclude on September 23, 2028. If your property is an HMO in any of these four wards, you will need an Additional HMO license.

Licensing Fees in Merton

Understanding the costs involved is a key part of the licensing process. Merton Council's licensing fees are structured to cover the administration and enforcement of the schemes. Based on recent information, landlords can expect the fees to be in the following range:

These fees are typically paid in installments, with an initial payment upon application and the remainder due upon the grant of the license. It's always advisable to check the latest fee schedule directly on the Merton Council website for the most accurate figures.

What this means for your property

Consider a landlord who owns a three-bedroom flat in the Figges Marsh ward, rented out to a single family. Because Figges Marsh is covered by Selective Licensing, this landlord must apply for a Selective License for their property, even though it's not an HMO. Simultaneously, if another landlord owns a four-bedroom house in the Abbey ward, rented to four unrelated individuals (an HMO), they would need to apply for an Additional HMO License. The key takeaway is that the specific ward and the type of tenancy (single household vs. HMO) determine which, if any, license is required. The simultaneous launch on September 24, 2023, meant landlords in affected areas had to act promptly to avoid operating unlicensed properties.

How to apply

Applying for a property license in Merton involves several practical steps:

1. Determine if your property needs a license: Use the ward information provided above and consider your property type (single household or HMO).

2. Gather necessary documents: This typically includes gas safety certificates, electrical safety certificates, EPCs, tenancy agreements, and floor plans.

3. Complete the online application: Merton Council provides an online portal for license applications. Ensure all sections are filled accurately.

4. Pay the application fee: The initial part of the fee is usually required at the time of application submission.

5. Await inspection and approval: The council may conduct an inspection of your property before granting the license. Be prepared to address any identified issues.

Check your specific property

To confirm the exact licensing requirements for your property and to initiate an application, we recommend using a dedicated property licensing checker. This tool can provide precise information based on your property's address.

Check your property's licensing status here