In Havering, the council will introduce the scheme from March 2026 to cover all privately rented properties across seven wards that are not currently subject to mandatory or additional HMO licensing.
The targeted wards are Beam Park, Harold Wood, Rainham and Wennington, Rush Green and Crowlands, Squirrels Heath, St Alban’s, and St Edwards.
Ray Morgon, leader of Havering Council, said: “Our priority is to help protect residents and support responsible landlords.
“We have some of the highest levels of private renting compared to other London boroughs.
“These licensing schemes will help us raise standards, tackle poor property management, and ensure that everyone in Havering has access to safe, secure and well-maintained homes.”
The selective licensing scheme will replace the existing HMO scheme, covering three wards until January 2026.
In addition, Havering will introduce a borough-wide additional HMO licensing scheme, also effective from March 2026.
This will replace the existing scheme covering six wards, which expires in January 2026.
The council said both schemes are designed to target poor housing conditions, reduce anti-social behaviour, and enforce landlord responsibility.
They form part of Havering’s broader efforts to improve housing quality and strengthen the private rented sector.
Cllr Morgon said: “Many landlords already do the right thing, but this licensing helps create a level playing field by targeting those who do not.
“We want those landlords who don’t comply, to know we will take the strongest action against them.”
Under the plans, landlords will be required to meet minimum housing standards or face enforcement action.
Accredited landlords and those with properties that achieve higher energy efficiency standards will be eligible for fee discounts.
The schemes support the council’s priorities of supporting our residents to stay safe and well, a great place to live, work and enjoy, and enabling a resident-focused and resilient Council.
The landlord licensing team can also be contacted by phone on 01708 432777 or 01708 432006, or by email at landlordlicensing@havering.gov.uk.
