Croydon Landlord Licensing

Croydon currently operates mandatory HMO licensing only. Additional HMO and selective licensing schemes are under consultation, with a Cabinet decision expected mid-2026.

New Licensing Schemes Under Consultation

Croydon's public consultation on proposed additional HMO and selective licensing ended in January 2026. A Cabinet decision is expected mid-2026. If approved, landlords in designated areas will need to apply for licences. Start preparing your compliance documents now to avoid a last-minute rush.

Current & Proposed Licensing

Active

Mandatory HMO Licensing

Required for properties with 5 or more occupants forming 2 or more separate households. This is the national mandatory scheme under the Housing Act 2004.

Fee£285/room

Part A £171 + Part B £114 per habitable room. Max £5,707 per property (2025/26).

Proposed

Additional HMO & Selective

Proposed additional HMO licensing (covering smaller HMOs with 3–4 occupants) and selective licensing (covering all privately rented properties in designated areas). Consultation ended January 2026.

Estimated Additional HMO Fee~£1,250
Estimated Selective Fee~£800

Cabinet decision expected mid-2026. Fees are estimates based on consultation documents.

Timeline

September 2020

Previous selective licensing scheme expired

January 2026

Public consultation on new additional and selective licensing ended

Mid-2026 (expected)

Cabinet decision on whether to proceed with new schemes

Late 2026 / Early 2027 (if approved)

New licensing schemes take effect

Prepare Now

Whether you need a mandatory HMO licence now or want to prepare for the proposed schemes, these certificates are required for any licence application in Croydon.

EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report)
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Gas Safety Certificate (CP12)
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Fire Risk Assessment
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Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
Floor plans with room measurements
Building insurance certificate

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Croydon currently have selective licensing?
No. Croydon's previous selective licensing scheme expired in September 2020 and has not been renewed. A new scheme is under consultation and a Cabinet decision is expected mid-2026.
What licensing is currently active in Croydon?
Croydon currently only requires mandatory HMO licensing for properties with 5 or more occupants forming 2 or more separate households. This is the national mandatory scheme under the Housing Act 2004.
How much does a Croydon HMO licence cost?
Croydon charges £285 per habitable room (Part A £171 + Part B £114), up to a maximum of £5,707 per property (2025/26 fees). This per-room structure is different from most boroughs that charge a flat fee.
When will Croydon introduce additional and selective licensing?
The public consultation on proposed additional and selective licensing ended in January 2026. A Cabinet decision is expected mid-2026. If approved, the new schemes would likely take effect later in 2026 or early 2027, with fees estimated at around £1,250 for additional HMO and £800 for selective.
What documents do I need for a Croydon HMO licence?
You will need: a valid EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report), a current gas safety certificate (CP12), a fire risk assessment, an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), floor plans with room measurements, building insurance, proof of identity, and proof of ownership.
What happens if I rent without a licence in Croydon?
Operating a licensable HMO without a licence is a criminal offence under the Housing Act 2004. The council can impose civil penalties of up to £30,000 per offence, prosecute, or tenants may apply for a Rent Repayment Order to recover up to 12 months' rent.

Get Ready for Croydon Licensing

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