Across the UK, local councils continue to roll out landlord licensing schemes, often with mixed opinions.
Some see them as essential for raising rental standards and protecting tenants, while others believe they add extra costs and complexity for landlords.
However, recent data from Peterborough City Council shows how such schemes can deliver real benefits when implemented effectively.
Spotlight on Peterborough’s selective licensing success
In March 2024, Peterborough City Council, working with delivery partner Home Safe, introduced its Selective Licensing Scheme. Within its first year, the results have been significant:
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Over 7,000 licence applications were submitted.
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Around 6,476 licences were approved after safety and compliance checks.
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Each approved property is scheduled for two inspections within the five-year licence period.
This structured approach ensures issues are identified early, helping maintain safe, compliant rental homes.
During the first year alone, 1,500 properties were inspected, uncovering more than 6,500 safety hazards — nearly half of which were classified as “serious risks” to tenant wellbeing. Problems ranged from damp and mould to faulty electrics and poor ventilation.
Importantly, landlords were provided with clear inspection reports and practical steps for improvement, supported by automated safety reminders from Home Safe. Most have acted promptly to resolve issues, a fact praised by Councillor Alison Jones, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, who thanked participating landlords for their cooperation in improving local housing standards.
Why landlords benefit from working with a letting agent
As more areas introduce Selective Licensing and HMO (House in Multiple Occupation) Licensing, landlords face increasing legal and compliance pressures. The consequences of non-compliance can be severe — from substantial fines to potential bans from letting property.
Working with a qualified letting agent can help landlords stay compliant and protected. Agents can:
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Keep track of local licensing requirements and application deadlines.
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Assess property conditions against Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) standards.
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Ensure adherence to the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 and wider building safety rules.
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Manage documentation, tenancy agreements and compliance with the Renters’ Rights Bill.
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Conduct regular inspections and provide reports to avoid enforcement action.
Five key HMO compliance checks
If you manage or own an HMO, make sure you can confidently answer “yes” to these essential questions:
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Does your property need a licence? Check with your local council.
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Have you (or your agent) reviewed all 29 HHSRS hazards for risks?
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Does the property meet required fire and building safety standards?
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Are all tenants properly referenced, documented and compliant with Renters’ Rights checks?
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Have you reviewed any additional local HMO licence conditions?
Next steps for landlords
If you’re unsure whether your property meets the latest licensing and safety standards, it’s worth seeking expert advice.
At Your Move, our experienced lettings team can carry out a free lettings review to help ensure your property is fully compliant and to protect you from potential fines or enforcement action.
Book your free lettings review today and let our team help you stay on the right side of legislation.
The Your Move Content Marketing Team
