Croydon Landlords Face Uncertainty Over Licensing Scheme Delay
UKPulse Property Desk
Croydon Council has postponed the start of two new property licensing schemes, with the application system not opening until the schemes begin, raising concerns about legal exposure for landlords.
- Croydon Council has delayed the start of its additional HMO and selective licensing schemes from 1 September to 25 September 2026.
- The council's application system for these licences will not open until 25 September, the same day the schemes come into force.
- This delay means landlords cannot apply for licences before the legal requirement begins, potentially leading to legal uncertainty.
Landlords in Croydon will be unable to apply for two new property licences until the day the schemes officially begin, prompting warnings about potential confusion and legal risks. Croydon Council has moved the start date for its additional HMO and selective licensing schemes from 1 September to 25 September 2026.
However, the council's online application system will not be available until 25 September. This means landlords cannot submit applications before the legal requirement for these licences is due to commence.
London Property Licensing suggests that the legal position could ultimately be decided by a court or tribunal. Richard Tacagni, managing director of the firm, stated that the situation highlights the risks of implementing a licensing scheme before all necessary components are in place.
The additional licensing scheme will cover smaller HMOs across the borough, while selective licensing will apply to privately rented homes in 14 wards. Both schemes were formally designated on 25 March and are intended to continue for five years.
Why this matters: The delay in opening the application system until the schemes commence could leave landlords in a legally uncertain position, as they cannot obtain licences before they are required.
What this means for you: If you are a landlord in Croydon, you will not be able to apply for the new additional HMO or selective licences until 25 September 2026, the same day the schemes come into force.