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Landlord licensing consultation

We are consulting on plans to implement a selective licensing scheme covering all privately rented properties in certain parts of the borough.

We have launched a consultation on plans to implement a selective licensing scheme covering all privately rented properties occupied by a single household or two unrelated individuals in certain parts of the borough.

Find out more about the proposals and fill out the consultation.

We previously consulted on plans for selective licensing in 2019, however the Covid-19 pandemic had an impact on the area which meant that the data was no longer accurate. As we respond and recover from what has been an exceptionally unprecedented two years, we have reviewed the previous proposals and are proposing a more targeted approach to reflect the needs of our borough post-Covid.

We are proposing three selective licensing designations that would cover 16 wards for a period of five years. If approved, all landlords and or managing agents with properties in the area that are privately rented to single households (or two sharers) will need to apply for a licence to legally let the property.

  • Designation One would cover Brockley, Lewisham Central, New Cross, Rushey Green, Catford South and Perry Vale wards (focused on reducing anti-social behaviour and improving housing conditions).

  • Designation Two would cover Evelyn, Ladywell, Lee Green, Sydenham and Crofton Park wards (focused on improving housing conditions).

  • Designation Three would cover Bellingham, Downham, Forest Hill, Grove Park and Whitefoot wards (focused on raising the living conditions of the most deprived).

We want all landlords, tenants, residents and business owners to have a say on housing in the community. That’s why we have extended the consultation period and made the consultation quicker and easier to complete.

The consultation will close on 20 May and the findings, together with the scheme proposals, are subject to approval from the Secretary of State at the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC).

Printed copies of the consultation are also available at Deptford, Downham and Lewisham libraries.

Fill out the consultation survey here.