Agents warned about beefed-up licensing schemes
Summary
Propertymark is warning letting agents and landlords that local licensing requirements are expanding while penalties for non-compliance have increased under the Renters’ Rights Act 2025. The article highlights growing council consultations on selective and additional licensing, Article 4 Directions affecting HMOs, and the forthcoming PRS Database as part of a more complex regulatory landscape.
Why it matters
Surveyors involved in residential investment, landlord advice, or due diligence need to understand how licensing changes can affect property use, compliance risk and rental viability. The article also signals wider regulatory pressure that may influence asset management decisions and local market supply.
Key points
- Maximum civil penalties for relevant Housing Act offences have risen from £30,000 to £40,000.
- Councils are consulting on new and expanded selective and additional licensing schemes, plus Article 4 Directions for HMOs.
- Unlicensed properties can trigger rent repayment orders of up to two years’ rent in relevant cases.
- The PRS Database is expected to roll out regionally from late 2026 with compulsory registration and an annual fee.
- Propertymark is urging members to engage with local consultations and report added costs and administrative burdens.
This is an RPSA summary of a publicly available article. The full content remains with the original publisher.
