Private renters
Councils are currently strengthening protections for private renters, particularly regarding licensing schemes and Houses in Multiple Occupation.
Merton Council confirmed an Article 4 Direction in September 2026, making permanent the requirement for planning permission for small Houses in Multiple Occupation across 13 wards. This decision impacts private renters in these properties. In September 2025, Islington Council debated a motion proposing to defend and expand licensing schemes and rigorously enforce the Islington Private Rented Sector Charter to support private renters.
Councils are working to improve conditions for individuals who rent properties from private landlords. For example, the Islington motion also called for the council to campaign for private renters' rights, working with tenant groups and other organisations to uphold principles for safe and decent homes.
Key facts
- Islington Council was scheduled to debate a motion on private renter rights on 18 September 2025. Source
- The Islington motion proposed defending and expanding licensing schemes for safe homes. Source
- The Islington motion proposed rigorously enforcing the Islington Private Rented Sector Charter. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on, with background from Wikipedia. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.