selective licensing regime
Harrow Council is exploring extending and renewing its selective licensing regime to address illegal Houses of Multiple Occupation.
Harrow Council is exploring the extension of its selective licensing regime to more wards and its renewal in existing ones, as part of efforts to combat illegal Houses of Multiple Occupation (HMOs). At an Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting in January 2026, councillors raised concerns about monitoring these properties, which often relies on reports from residents.
Fly-tipping, particularly residential waste, has been identified as a potential indicator of illegal HMOs, a report to the committee said. The selective licensing regime is a regulatory framework used by local authorities to improve standards in the private rented sector by requiring landlords to obtain a license for their properties. No upcoming discussions are currently scheduled.
Key facts
- Harrow Council is exploring extending its selective licensing regime to more wards and renewing it in existing ones. Source
- This was discussed at an Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting in January 2026. Source
- Fly-tipping has been identified as a potential indicator of illegal Houses of Multiple Occupation. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. 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.