Question 1

How many licensing schemes does Southwark have?

Accepted Answer

Southwark operates four overlapping licensing schemes: mandatory HMO licensing (national, 5+ person HMOs), additional HMO licensing (borough-wide since March 2022, 3-4 person HMOs), and two selective licensing designations covering 10 wards across the borough. This makes Southwark one of London's most complex licensing environments.

Question 2

How much does a Southwark licence cost?

Accepted Answer

Mandatory HMO licensing costs £1,575 plus £105 per bedroom over 5. Additional HMO licensing costs £1,365.10. Selective licensing varies but starts at £900+. If your property falls under multiple schemes, you need the appropriate licence for each category.

Question 3

Which wards are covered by selective licensing?

Accepted Answer

Selective licensing covers 10 wards across two schemes. Scheme 1 (since March 2022): Newington, Champion Hill, Faraday, St Giles, and Goose Green. Scheme 2 (since November 2023): North Walworth, Nunhead & Queens Road, Old Kent Road, Peckham, and Camberwell Green.

Question 4

When did Southwark's additional HMO licensing start?

Accepted Answer

Southwark's borough-wide additional HMO licensing has been active since March 2022 and runs until February 2027. It covers all HMOs with 3-4 occupants from 2 or more households across the entire borough.

Question 5

What happens if I don't get a licence in Southwark?

Accepted Answer

Operating without a required licence can result in a civil penalty of up to £40,000 per offence (effective 1 May 2026), criminal prosecution with unlimited fines, Rent Repayment Orders for up to 12 months' rent, and you cannot serve a valid Section 21 eviction notice while unlicensed. Southwark Council actively enforces licensing requirements.

Question 6

What compliance documents do I need?

Accepted Answer

You need: a valid gas safety certificate (CP12), an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), a fire risk assessment, an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC, minimum E rating), floor plans with room measurements, building insurance, proof of ownership, and landlord identity verification. If your property is in an Article 4 area, you also need planning permission.

Question 7

Does Southwark have Article 4 Directions?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Southwark has Article 4 Directions in Henshaw Street (SE17) and Bywater Place (SE16). In these areas, you need planning permission to convert a property from C3 (family dwelling) to C4 (small HMO). This adds an extra regulatory requirement on top of licensing.

Question 8

Can I let my property while waiting for my licence?

Accepted Answer

Yes, provided you have submitted a valid application. You can continue to let your property while the council processes your application, which typically takes 8-12 weeks. However, you must apply before letting — operating without having applied is an offence.

Question 9

What is the difference between Scheme 1 and Scheme 2 selective licensing?

Accepted Answer

Both schemes cover different wards. Scheme 1 has been running since March 2022 covering Newington, Champion Hill, Faraday, St Giles, and Goose Green. Scheme 2 expanded coverage in November 2023 to include North Walworth, Nunhead & Queens Road, Old Kent Road, Peckham, and Camberwell Green. Together they cover 10 wards.

Southwark Landlord Licensing

Southwark Has 4 Licensing Schemes — Are You Covered?

Four Licensing Schemes

Selective Scheme 1

Selective Scheme 2

Additional HMO

Mandatory HMO

Selective Licensing Ward Coverage

Scheme 1 — 5 Wards (Since March 2022)

Scheme 2 — 5 Wards (Since November 2023)

Article 4 Directions in Southwark

Key Dates

Required Compliance Documents

Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Get Your Compliance Certificates

More About Southwark

Southwark Private Sector Housing Team