Private Landlords Must Get Licensed or Face Action From Havering Council.

Havering Council is set to introduce new licensing schemes for privately rented homes starting Wednesday 18 March 2026. The measures aim to improve housing standards, protect tenants, and support responsible landlords across the borough.

Under the selective licensing scheme, landlords in seven of Havering’s 20 wards must obtain a licence for any property rented to single families or two sharers before letting it out.

The additional HMO licensing scheme will cover the whole borough and applies to properties rented to three or four unrelated people who share facilities like kitchens or bathrooms.

Councillor Barry Mugglestone, Cabinet Member for Environment, said: “Everyone deserves a decent, safe place to live. These schemes will help us raise standards in the private rented sector, crack down on rogue landlords, and ensure tenants are treated fairly. We’re working closely with landlords to make the process as smooth as possible.”

The schemes target areas with high levels of privately rented homes, anti-social behaviour, and poor housing conditions. Havering started accepting licence applications on 25 January 2026, and landlords are encouraged to apply before 18 March to avoid enforcement action.

For full details, including which areas are covered and how to apply, visit www.havering.gov.uk/propertylicensing.DEVELOPER MODE

Stay up to date with all of our latest updates and content by following us on our social media accounts!

We have created community pages where we will share our up-to-date stories happening in the area. Add the area closest to where you live.