Westminster Council has more than doubled the size of its private renters’ team since launching its selective licensing scheme last November.

It says landlords’ response to the scheme has been far stronger than anticipated and it has received significantly more applications than expected - 24,797. As a direct result it has hired 52 new staff, “dramatically increasing both capacity and specialist expertise”.

The authority explains: “This expansion allows us to move from a system that was too often reactive – responding only once problems had escalated – to one that is proactive, focused on early intervention, compliance, and prevention. We want to thank landlords across Westminster for their proactivity and willingness to comply.”

Its scheme - the capital’s most expensive - applies in 15 of Westminster’s 18 wards in a bid to tackle poor housing conditions and reduce anti-social behaviour. A licence costs £995 although accredited landlords pay 10% less while those with good EPC ratings can get up to 20% off.

Charter

The borough has already launched a tenants’ charter aimed at helping private renters better understand their rights, improve living standards, and access support services. It has now introduced an online reporting tool for residents who suspect a property is operating without the correct licence.

Councillor Ellie Ormsby, cabinet member for regeneration and renters, says the team will now shift its focus to the next phase of delivery - increasing compliance across the borough - by identifying properties that are not registered but should be licensed under the scheme.

She adds: “As new duties come into force under the Renters’ Rights Act, Westminster Labour is making sure the council has the capacity to meet its responsibilities, protect renters, and support responsible landlords. This expanded team gives us the tools we need to deliver real change in the private rented sector.”

Westminster MP Rachel Blake introduced a Private Members’ Bill earlier this week calling for a clamp down on short lets in the borough by collecting data on the number of nights landlords rent out their properties.

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