Selective licensing allows local authorities to require all privately rented properties in designated areas to be licensed — not just HMOs.

Conditions for selective licensing include: low housing demand, anti-social behaviour, poor property conditions, high migration, deprivation, or high crime. Schemes covering more than 20% of the area need Secretary of State approval.

Licence conditions typically cover property maintenance, safety compliance, anti-social behaviour management, and property management standards.

Penalties for operating without a licence: unlimited fines, civil penalties up to £30,000, and potential Rent Repayment Orders.

Custodia helps check licensing requirements across your portfolio and maintain compliance with licence conditions.