What is UK Landlord News?

UK Landlord News publishes original news, plain-English explainers and practical resources for UK private landlords — covering rental law, tax, compliance, evictions, licensing and tenancy management. We write original summaries and link to official sources; we do not republish other publishers' articles.

Is the content legal or financial advice?

No. Everything we publish is general information only and is not legal, financial or tax advice. Rules change and differ across the UK nations, so always check official sources and seek qualified advice before acting.

What is the landlord toolkit?

A downloadable set of practical templates, checklists and trackers to help landlords stay organised across tenancy admin, compliance dates and maintenance. Checkout is handled securely by Payhip.

Can I comment on articles?

Yes. Create a free account to comment on articles, reply to others and join the discussion, in line with our Community Rules.

.static-shell{max-width:1180px;margin:0 auto;padding:2rem 1rem;font-family:system-ui,-apple-system,BlinkMacSystemFont,"Segoe UI",sans-serif;color:#111;background:#fff} .static-shell a{color:inherit}.static-kicker{font-size:.72rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:.12em;color:#b00020;font-weight:700}.static-grid{display:grid;grid-template-columns:repeat(auto-fit,minmax(230px,1fr));gap:1.25rem}.static-card{border-top:1px solid #ddd;padding-top:1rem}.static-card img,.static-hero img{width:100%;height:auto;object-fit:cover;background:#eee}.static-card h2{font-family:Georgia,serif;font-size:1.35rem;line-height:1.08;margin:.4rem 0}.static-hero{display:grid;grid-template-columns:minmax(0,1.5fr) minmax(260px,.8fr);gap:1.5rem;border-bottom:1px solid #ddd;padding-bottom:2rem;margin-bottom:2rem}.static-hero h1{font-family:Georgia,serif;font-size:clamp(2.2rem,5vw,4.5rem);line-height:.96;margin:.5rem 0}.static-article{max-width:760px}.static-article h1{font-family:Georgia,serif;font-size:clamp(2.2rem,5vw,4.2rem);line-height:1;margin:.5rem 0}.static-article p{font-size:1.08rem;line-height:1.75}.static-meta{color:#666;font-size:.9rem}.static-box{border-left:4px solid #b00020;background:#f6f3ef;padding:1rem 1.25rem;margin:1.5rem 0}.static-section{margin-top:2.5rem}.static-section h2{font-family:Georgia,serif;font-size:2rem;border-bottom:1px solid #ddd;padding-bottom:.5rem}@media(max-width:800px){.static-hero{grid-template-columns:1fr}.static-shell{padding:1.25rem}}

Licensing

Selective licensing: what landlords should check

By UK Landlord News Editorial Team · Published 07/06/2026 · Updated 17/06/2026

How selective licensing schemes work in general, and why they vary by area.

Some councils introduce selective licensing, which can require a licence to let properties in a designated area — even for single-family lets. Schemes are local and time-limited.

Because they vary so much, the only reliable approach is to check directly with the local authority for the property. This explainer covers the concept.

Why this matters for landlords

Licensing can apply even outside HMOs.
Schemes differ by council and can change.
Letting without a required licence carries penalties.

What landlords should check

Whether the property's area has a selective scheme.
The fees, conditions and duration of any scheme.
Renewal dates so a licence does not lapse.

Sources & official references

Private renting: licences (GOV.UK)

Important: general information only — not legal, financial or tax advice. Always check official sources and seek qualified advice before acting.