Rental Property Licensing in Stockton-on-Tees

Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council operates a Selective Licensing scheme in specific areas to improve housing standards and management in the private rented sector. This means that if you are a landlord with properties in these designated areas, you are legally required to obtain a licence for each rented property.

What is Selective Licensing?

Selective Licensing is a scheme introduced by local authorities under Part 3 of the Housing Act 2004. It allows councils to designate specific areas where all privately rented properties must be licensed, regardless of whether they are Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) or not. The primary aim is to address issues such as anti-social behaviour, poor property conditions, and inadequate management by landlords. By requiring landlords to meet certain conditions, the council can ensure a better quality of housing and a safer environment for tenants.

Which properties need a licence in Stockton-on-Tees?

In Stockton-on-Tees, properties located within the designated Selective Licensing areas require a licence. The scheme was approved by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council Cabinet on 16 May 2024 and commenced on 1 November 2024, running for five years [1]. The designated areas include parts of Central Stockton, North Thornaby, and Newtown [2]. If your privately rented property is within these specific boundaries, you must apply for a Selective Licence.

How to check if your property needs a licence

To determine if your property in Stockton-on-Tees falls within a Selective Licensing area and requires a licence, you can use the search function on tuxa.co.uk by entering the property's address. This will help you quickly ascertain your obligations as a landlord. Alternatively, you can directly contact Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council's housing or private sector housing team for clarification and to view detailed maps of the designated areas.

Penalties for non-compliance

Operating a privately rented property that requires a Selective Licence without one is a serious offence. Landlords found to be non-compliant can face significant penalties. These include a civil penalty of up to £30,000 or an unlimited fine if the case is brought before a magistrates' court. Additionally, the council may issue a Rent Repayment Order, requiring the landlord to repay up to 12 months' rent to the tenants. Non-compliance can also affect a landlord's ability to regain possession of their property.

Apply for a licence

If your property requires a Selective Licence, you must apply directly to Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council. The application process typically involves completing an application form, providing necessary documentation, and paying a fee. It is crucial to apply promptly to avoid penalties. Further details and application forms can usually be found on the council's official website or by contacting their private sector housing department.

References

[1] Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council. (n.d.). The purpose of Selective Licensing and who it applies to. Available at: https://www.stockton.gov.uk/article/14526/The-purpose-of-Selective-Licensing-and-who-it-applies-to

[2] BBC News. (2025, November 28). Licensing scheme sees crackdown on problem housing. Available at: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cd0kjn5zkgno