Greenwich Property Licensing Schemes
Got questions about licensing schemes in Greenwich? We’re here to help. This free guide will provide you with the key details regarding what licensing requirements are necessary in Greenwich and how to apply for a licence.
Is manual compliance causing a headache for your agency? At Kamma, we specialise in automating licensing compliance for agents across the UK. If you need any assistance in getting your property portfolio compliant, find out how we can help letting agents here.
What are the licensing requirements for Greenwich?
Mandatory licensing in Greenwich
Mandatory licensing is required in Greenwich if your rented property is occupied by five or more people who form more than one household, including:
- Shared houses and flats occupied by students and young professionals.
- Properties converted into bedsits with some shared facilities.
- Properties converted into a mix of self-contained and non-self-contained accommodation.
Do I need an additional property licence in Greenwich?
An additional licensing scheme means that any HMO property with three or more people from more than one household requires a licence in an area decided at the council’s discretion.
Greenwich Council operates one additional licensing scheme covering the entire borough. It runs from the 1st January 2024 until 31st December 2028
Do I need a selective licence in Greenwich?
Selective licensing means that all privately rented properties in an area decided by the council will require licensing, regardless of the number of occupants or households.
Greenwich council operates one selective licensing scheme. The selective scheme covers the wards of Plumstead & Glyndon, Plumstead Common, Shooters Hill, Woolwich Arsenal, and Woolwich Common. The scheme runs from 1st October 2022 until 30th September 2027
How do I apply for a licence?
Greenwich Council has an online HMO licensing application process accessible here. For Kamma users, we offer a licence application service for Greenwich. Get in touch with us here to find out more.
How much does a license cost?
Mandatory licence fee: £2,499.40 for 5 properties (+ £299 per additional unit)
Additional licence fee: £1,499.65 for 3 properties (+ £488.88 per additional unit)
Selective licence fee: £858
These fees are subject to change and are accurate as of 5th August 2024.
Get instant access to compliance reports across all properties
Kamma uses data-driven technology to help landlords and lettings agents deal with complex licensing compliance effortlessly. Find out how Kamma’s software can keep you compliant across your portfolio.
- Clear actionable advice for every property in your portfolio
- Instant notification of any licensing changes affecting one of your properties
- Access property licensing experts to manage the licensing application on your behalf
What happens if I don't get a licence in Greenwich?
Ignoring the law could result in prosecution by Greenwich Council, fines, court costs, and more. Ensure you comply with all regulations to avoid these risks. Fines for non-compliant agents can be up to £30,000 per non-compliant property, as well as rent repayment orders of up to 12 months.
If you’re concerned about unlicensed properties in your portfolio, book a free consultation today with one of our consultants to get a property licensing check here. By keeping your properties in line with your region’s licensing requirements, you can maintain peace of mind that you won’t get burnt by non-compliance.
Frequently asked questions:
Is Greenwich council planning on introducing any new licensing schemes?
As of now, Greenwich Council is not currently consulting on or planning to introduce any new licensing schemes.
Why has selective licensing in Greenwich been introduced?
Greenwich Council introduced selective licensing to improve housing standards and address issues such as poor property management and anti-social behaviour in the private rented sector. By requiring landlords in specific areas to obtain licences, the council aims to ensure compliance with management standards, enhancing tenant safety and well-being. The initiative targets areas with high levels of privately rented homes, aiming to reduce health hazards, improve living conditions, and support community stability.
What are the housing standards for HMOs in Greenwich?
The Royal Borough of Greenwich’s standards for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) focus on ensuring the health, safety, and welfare of occupants, requiring licensing and adherence to specific regulations. These standards mandate minimum space requirements for rooms and common areas, adequate kitchen and bathroom facilities, and compliance with fire safety and energy efficiency regulations. Landlords must provide proper heating, lighting, ventilation, and refuse storage, as well as display contact information for emergencies. Management responsibilities include maintaining the property, ensuring the supply of utilities, and keeping shared spaces clean, while properties must have an Energy Performance Certificate rating of ‘E’ or above. These measures are designed to maintain safe and habitable living conditions in HMOs across the borough.
About Greenwich
Greenwich, a royal borough in London, is located on the south bank of the River Thames in the historic county of Kent. Known for its rich naval history and expansive green spaces, Greenwich includes areas like Blackheath, Charlton, and Eltham. It is home to the Royal Greenwich Observatory, the National Maritime Museum, and the UNESCO World Heritage site Maritime Greenwich. Covering 47 square kilometres, the borough had a population of 254,557 in 2011 and was granted a royal charter in 2012. The area boasts historical landmarks such as the Old Royal Naval College and the famous tea clipper Cutty Sark, making it a vibrant cultural hub with a deep historical legacy.
