What type of property do you rent?
đď¸ House in Multiple Occupation (HMO)
If you share with 4+ other unrelated people across 3+ storeys, your landlord needs a mandatory HMO licence from the council. This is required nationally.
Check with your local council or search the national HMO register.
Check HMO rules on GOV.UKđ˘ Selective licensing area
Some London boroughs require ALL private landlords to have a licence â not just HMOs. This is called selective or additional licensing.
Check if your borough operates a licensing scheme below.
London Councils â find your boroughđ´ó §ó ˘ó ˇó Źó łó ż Rent Smart Wales
In Wales, ALL private landlords must be registered with Rent Smart Wales. Letting agents must also be licensed. This is a legal requirement.
Check Rent Smart Wales registerđ Private Rented Sector Database
Under the Renters' Rights Act 2025, a new national database of landlords is being created. All landlords in England will need to register.
Not live yet â expected to launch during 2026.
Track the Renters' Rights Act âHow to check if your London landlord is licensed
Find your London borough
Work out which council covers your property â this determines which licensing scheme applies to you.
Search your council's website for "landlord licensing"
Look for "selective licensing", "additional licensing" or "HMO licensing". Most councils have a public register you can search.
Ask your landlord directly
You have the right to ask your landlord for a copy of their licence. Put the request in writing (email) so there's a record.
If they're not licensed â report it
Contact your local council's private housing team. Unlicensed landlords can be fined up to ÂŁ30,000. You may also be able to apply for a Rent Repayment Order to reclaim up to 12 months' rent.
London boroughs with selective or additional licensing schemes
These boroughs require licences for private landlords beyond just HMOs. Always check with the council directly as schemes change.
â ď¸ This list may not be complete or up to date. Always verify directly with your council.