Croydon Council is set to implement new licensing schemes for its private rented sector, aiming to improve housing standards and tenant rights. The Additional and Selective Licensing schemes, along with a new Private Sector Housing Enforcement Policy, are scheduled to go live on September 25, 2026.

The initiatives are part of a broader strategy to enhance conditions within the private rented sector, reduce anti-social behaviour, and create a more sustainable regulatory framework. This includes expanding the council's private sector housing team to bolster proactive enforcement, particularly concerning breaches of the new Renters' Rights Act.

The Renters' Rights Act introduces new offences such as rental discrimination and restricts the use of fixed-term tenancies, moving towards longer-term periodic tenancies. Landlords found to be in breach of these regulations, including those who discriminate against tenants on benefits or with children, or who attempt to use fixed-term tenancies, could face fines. While specific proposed fine amounts are not definitively stated, examples of potential fines mentioned in discussions range from £3,000 to £7,000.

A line graph showing a significant decrease in a metric from over 13,000 in late May to under 4,000 by late August, with data points labeled for specific dates.
A line graph showing a significant decrease in a metric.

Beyond fines, Croydon Council possesses a range of enforcement powers under various legislation, including the Housing Act, Protection From Eviction Act, and the Renters Rights Act. These powers allow for consequences such as civil financial penalties, cautions, criminal prosecutions, improvement notices, injunctions, works in default, court fines, and financial charges on property. The council has stated its intention to make use of all of its powers to ensure compliance.

These measures were discussed at a recent Housing Assurance Board meeting, where it was highlighted that the private rented sector plays a vital role in meeting the borough's housing needs and preventing homelessness. The council intends to utilise all its available powers to improve access to private rented properties, which have historically been underutilised.

Councillor Lynne Hale, Cabinet Member for Homes, stated that the council is committed to making use of all its powers to ensure better standards in the private rented sector. The new licensing schemes are expected to improve housing conditions, increase tenant awareness of their rights, and reduce anti-social behaviour.

For more details on the council's housing strategies and data, refer to the Public reports pack 14th Sep 2026 Housing Assurance Board.

A donut chart illustrating the current status of housing voids, categorized by different stages such as standard, major work, ready to let, pre-work, and asset-related statuses.
Current voids by status.