A structured review of selective licensing scheme activity across England in Q1 2026, including new designations, consultations opened, and schemes approaching renewal.
Q1 2026 Selective Licensing Activity — England
Selective licensing activity across English local authorities remained elevated in Q1 2026, consistent with the trend of councils using licensing powers as their primary enforcement tool ahead of the Renters' Rights Act reforms.
New designations confirmed
Nottingham City Council confirmed a new citywide selective licensing scheme designation covering approximately 28,000 privately rented properties. The scheme replaces the previous area-based approach and takes effect from 1 July 2026. Landlords with properties in Nottingham should apply before the go-live date to avoid operating unlicensed. Licence fee: £890 per property for a five-year licence.
Salford City Council extended its existing selective licensing scheme to cover additional wards in Eccles and Irlam. The extension was confirmed in February 2026 following a public consultation that closed in November 2025. Affected landlords were notified directly; the extension covers approximately 3,400 additional properties.
Bristol City Council opened a public consultation on a proposed new selective licensing scheme covering Easton, Lawrence Hill, and Ashley wards. The consultation closed 14 March 2026. A decision is expected in Q2 2026.
Schemes approaching renewal
The following schemes are due to expire in 2026 and are expected to be renewed or replaced:
- Waltham Forest — scheme expires August 2026. Council has confirmed it intends to renew. Consultation expected Q2 2026.
- Newham — borough-wide additional licensing scheme expires October 2026. Renewal consultation opened March 2026.
- Croydon — selective licensing in Broad Green and Thornton Heath expires September 2026.
What landlords should check
If you hold property in any of the following boroughs or cities, verify your current licence status and renewal dates: Nottingham, Salford, Bristol (pending), Waltham Forest, Newham, Croydon, Liverpool, Manchester, Leeds, Sheffield.
Licensing enforcement penalties under the Renters' Rights Act 2025 have increased to a maximum of £40,000 per offence. Operating without a licence where one is required is a criminal offence carrying an unlimited fine and potential rent repayment orders covering up to 24 months of rent.
Landlord Insights — landlordinsights.co.uk — All items sourced from official local authority and government publications. Not legal advice.
This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Always verify information against the original source and seek independent professional guidance before acting on any regulatory matter.