Bristol City Council expanded its selective licensing scheme from August 2023. All privately rented properties in designated areas of Bristol require a licence before letting. Fees start at 720 per property.
Bristol City Council expanded its selective licensing scheme in August 2023, extending the requirement to hold a licence to a larger proportion of the citys private rented housing stock.
Landlords with properties in designated areas must obtain a licence before letting. The application requires a fit and proper person declaration, evidence of gas and electrical safety compliance, and payment of the licence fee. Licences are granted for up to five years and carry conditions covering property standards, management arrangements, and tenant referencing requirements.
Landlords who let without a licence in a designated area are subject to civil penalties of up to 30,000 and may face a Rent Repayment Order covering up to 12 months rent. Bristol City Council has an active enforcement programme.
Action required
Check whether your Bristol properties are in a designated licensing area. Apply for a licence before letting any affected property.
Effective
1 August 2023
Who this affects
All private landlords letting property in designated Bristol areas
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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.