If you’re a landlord in Westminster, this means new legal obligations, licensing costs, and stricter property management requirements. Understanding the changes now will help you stay compliant and avoid costly penalties in the future.

Which Properties Will Need a Licence?

The scheme applies to all privately rented properties in 15 of Westminster’s 18 wards.
Only Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) that already fall under existing licensing rules are exempt.

If your rental property is located in one of the affected wards, you must apply for a licence before continuing to let it legally.

Licensing Costs and Possible Discounts

Each licence will cost £995 per property for up to five years, payable in two stages:

• £543 at application

• £452 when the licence is issued

You may qualify for a discount if:

• You’re an accredited landlord

• Your property has a strong EPC rating

• You manage multiple flats in the same building

• You represent a registered charity providing housing for vulnerable tenants (fully exempt)

Key Landlord Responsibilities

Holding a licence means you’ll need to meet several compliance and management conditions, including:

• Maintaining properties in a safe, good condition, free from hazards

• Providing valid safety certificates (e.g., gas, electrical, and smoke alarms)

• Managing tenants responsibly, addressing anti-social behaviour promptly

Letting a property without a valid licence could result in:

• Civil penalties up to £30,000

• Rent Repayment Orders (RROs) — tenants can reclaim up to 12 months’ rent, or 24 months once the Renters Reform Bill takes effect

Why Westminster Introduced the Scheme

The council’s goal is to improve housing standards and reduce anti-social behaviour.  By expanding regulation beyond HMOs, Westminster aims to create a safer, better-managed private rental sector. For responsible landlords, this may mean extra paperwork. 

What Landlords Should Do Now

If you rent out property in Westminster:

1. Check whether your property is located in one of the affected wards.

2. Apply early — the application portal opened 1 October 2025.

3. Review your management standards to ensure full compliance.

🗝️ How Pass the Keys – Mayfair Can Support You

At Pass the Keys – Mayfair, we specialise in short-let property management across central London.  We’re actively tracking the Westminster licensing changes and working to ensure all our clients remain fully compliant. Whether you’re a landlord already in the market or just considering short-term letting, our expert team can help you stay informed, compliant, and profitable.