Landlords in County Durham and Liverpool will be encouraged to share their views on the future of selective licensing beyond March 2027.

A new scheme in County Durham would cover an estimated 20,000 properties in areas that meet the criteria for a selective licensing designated area - covering 27% of the county. Areas which are included in the current scheme but no longer meet the criteria for a designated area would be removed from April 2027. A consultation starts in June.

Earlier this year the authority announced plans to extend Article 4 rules across the entire borough to control the spread of HMOs.

Councillor Joe Quinn, member for planning, investment and assets, says it is estimated that up to 60% of all homes are in the private rental sector and while many of these homes are good quality, much of the stock is older, not energy efficient, or in need of repair or refurbishment.

Work

“Over the last five years, the selective licensing scheme has allowed us to work closer with landlords and provide additional support to ensure their rental properties are of a high standard and meet the needs of residents,” says Quinn. “It has also allowed us, where needed, to take enforcement action when a landlord has failed to engage with the scheme and not provided safe housing for their tenants.”

Meanwhile, Liverpool City Council has approved a consultation on proposals covering selective licensing – which will also launch next month. Residents, landlords and agents will be asked for their views on a range of options, including whether a future scheme should be city‑wide or targeted at specific neighbourhoods.

Current

The city’s current scheme was also introduced in 2022 and runs until March 2027, covering up to 80% of its private rental sector.

Councillor Hetty Wood, cabinet member for housing, says: “Selective licensing has helped to raise standards and protect tenants in some of our communities. This consultation is an important next step, giving residents and landlords the chance to shape how we continue that work in the future.”

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