New Landlord Licensing Scheme for Westminster

Westminster City Council is rolling out a new Selective Licensing Scheme across 15 out of 18 wards. The scheme is due to be operational from 24 November 2025, giving landlords some time to prepare – but don’t leave it too late.

There are two existing licensing schemes in operation in Westminster: a mandatory HMO licensing scheme covering large houses in multiple occupation (HMOs), which has operated for almost 20 years; and an additional HMO licensing scheme, covering smaller HMOs, which has been in place since 2021.

Now, they will be joined by a new Westminster licensing scheme. It will cover private rented properties let to a single tenant, one household (e.g. a family), or two individual tenants sharing the property.

Councillor Ellie Ormsby, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Renters, said: “This scheme is about raising standards in the private rented sector and making sure every tenant has access to a safe, secure, and decent home.”

Westminster’s new landlord licence does have a cost attached, with a fee payable in two parts. However, discounts are available, for example, for accredited landlords and properties with an EPC rating C, or EPC rating B or higher.

The scheme is split into two parts. Designation 1 covers 8 wards:

• Knightsbridge and Belgravia
• Westbourne
• Harrow Road
• Queen’s Park
• Little Venice
• Maida Vale
• Church Street
• Abbey Road

Designation 2 will apply to a further 7 wards:

• Pimlico North
• West End
• Regent’s Park
• Lancaster Gate
• Hyde Park
• Marylebone
• Bayswater

Pimlico South, St James’ or Vincent Square are not covered by the scheme – though HMO licensing schemes remain in operation in these areas. If you are unsure which ward your property is in, you can use the ward finder tool on the city council’s website.

Landlords can apply online to Westminster’s new licensing scheme from 1 October 2025. To get ready for the application process, the council will be running landlord forums, webinars and drop-in sessions around the city.

Read more on Landlord Today.

Find further details on the licensing scheme and advice sessions on Westminster City Council.