Croydon Council has announced plans to introduce a selective licensing scheme aimed at tackling poor housing conditions and clamping down on irresponsible landlords whose actions can affect tenants’ health and wellbeing.

The proposed scheme would require all private landlords in 14 wards—covering around 32,000 rental homes, or 74% of the borough’s private rental stock—to hold a licence. To qualify, landlords would need to meet a series of requirements, including maintaining property standards and taking appropriate action against problematic tenants.

Council’s Position

Jason Perry, Croydon’s Executive Mayor, said:  “As part of our work to improve housing standards across the borough we have done much to improve social housing. This proposal is about looking to use council powers to do what we can to drive up standards in the private rented sector too. 

“We have many responsible landlords in Croydon – this scheme will evidence their professionalism and highlight those who are irresponsible and currently bringing down the reputation of the sector in the borough. I encourage anyone with an interest to take part in the consultation when it launches next month.

“We know that poor housing conditions and irresponsible landlords can have a devastating impact on residents’ health, wellbeing, and life chances. That’s why we are proposing to introduce a new landlord licensing scheme in the borough.”

What This Means for Landlords

If approved, the scheme would:

• Require landlords in the designated wards to apply for a licence and pay the relevant fees.

• Place new obligations on landlords to demonstrate they are maintaining their properties to acceptable standards.

• Provide enforcement powers for the council to act against landlords who fail to comply.

Next Step: A public consultation will open next month, giving landlords, agents, and tenants the chance to share their views.

Landlord Impact: Croydon Licensing Scheme

If Croydon’s proposals are approved, landlords in the 14 affected wards should prepare for:

1. Licence Application & Fees

• Each property will need a licence (likely lasting 5 years).

• Expect fees in line with other London schemes (£500–£750 per property is typical).

2. Compliance Conditions

• Meet minimum property standards (repairs, damp, fire safety, gas/electrical certification).

• Demonstrate proper tenancy management, including tackling antisocial behaviour.

3. Record-Keeping & Evidence

• Maintain clear records of inspections, repairs, and tenant communications.

• Councils increasingly request documented evidence at the application stage.

4. Enforcement Risk

• Failure to obtain a licence can lead to:

  • Fines of up to £30,000.

  • Rent Repayment Orders (tenants reclaiming up to 12 months’ rent).

  • Criminal prosecution for persistent breaches.

5. Reputation & Professionalism

• Compliant landlords benefit: licensing acts as proof of professionalism, while rogue landlords face exposure.

Tip for landlords: Audit your portfolio now—check safety certificates, tenancy agreements, and maintenance logs—so you’re ready to apply once the scheme launches.