Hillingdon Council has agreed to consider additional licensing after residents raised concerns about growing problems in the London borough.
It is conducting a housing tenure survey to gather evidence and assess whether further regulations are justified. If the evidence supports introducing additional licensing, a full public consultation will launch in the autumn.
Enhanced licensing rules would allow the council to address issues including rogue landlords, poor quality housing, safety conditions and anti-social behaviour.
More than a quarter of homes in the borough were in the PRS in the 2021 census, a 7% jump between 2011 and 2021, which was the second largest increase in London.
Following concerns raised by residents about the rise in HMOs and issues associated with them, a full council motion was passed in July 2024 which committed to investigating additional licensing.
The authority says a scheme would help ensure properties were safe, well-managed, and contain basic facilities for tenants, while providing the council with greater powers to hold landlords to account and inspect properties to check they meet required standards. It would also help address anti-social behaviour and waste management issues.
Councillor Steve Tuckwell (pictured), cabinet member for planning, housing and growth, says HMOs are an affordable and flexible housing option for many residents, however, he adds: “It is clear that many HMOs are having a detrimental impact on the local community and additional licensing measures would provide us with greater scrutiny of landlords, protecting both the tenants and local neighbourhoods.
“We’re determined to keep residents safe from harm and ensure everyone can live in safe, good quality homes.”
The council’s cabinet will receive an update on the findings in February 2026.
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