Leeds City Council's selective licensing scheme has been live since 9 February 2026 across parts of six priority wards, with civil penalties of up to ?40,000 for non-compliance following the commencement of the Renters' Rights Act on 1 May 2026. The council is now in full enforcement mode using data-led identification of unlicensed properties. A fee apportionment change took effect on 26 February 2026.
On 3 November 2025, Leeds City Council formally designated parts of the Armley, Beeston and Holbeck, Burmantofts and Richmond Hill, Hunslet and Riverside, Gipton and Harehills, and Farnley and Wortley wards for selective licensing with effect from 9 February 2026. From that date, landlords operating a privately rented property in the designated parts of those wards must have a licence or have made an application in order to comply with the law.
From 9 February 2026, landlords must have applied to the council for a selective licence if they rent out a property in the covered areas. Those who buy a property after that date must apply within 14 days of purchase. Failure to apply for a licence could lead to formal action ? either a prosecution with an unlimited fine or a civil penalty of up to ?40,000.
For offences taking place on or after 1 May 2026, the civil penalty limit increases to ?40,000 per offence.
A Residential Property Tribunal could additionally order a landlord to repay up to two years' rent to the tenants or the council for offences committed on or after 1 May 2026.
From 26 February 2026, the council revised the apportionment of the fee for selective licensing. Whilst there is no change to the total amount of the fee, there has been a change to how much is payable at each stage. The decision can be read online on Democracy Leeds.
All licences issued as part of the scheme will expire on 8 February 2031, which is the end date of the designation.
Action required
Landlords with property in Armley, Beeston and Holbeck, Burmantofts and Richmond Hill, Hunslet and Riverside, Gipton and Harehills, and Farnley and Wortley wards must hold a valid licence or have applied. New purchasers must apply within 14 days of completion. Check the interactive map on Leeds.gov.uk.
Effective
2026-02-09
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