Great Yarmouth’s New Selective Licensing: What Landlords Need to Do Now

Overview: New Selective Licensing Scheme in Great Yarmouth

Great Yarmouth Borough Council will implement a Selective Licensing Scheme from April 2026, impacting roughly 60% of the borough’s private rented housing. Landlords of properties in designated wards must apply for and obtain a Selective Licence by 30 June 2026. The licence will last for five years with a fee of £694 per property.

The council aims to enhance housing standards to ensure homes are safe, healthy, and energy efficient, while improving property management practices. Failure to comply risks enforcement action, including fines.

Why This Matters to Landlords

This scheme brings new compliance and administrative responsibilities for private landlords, whether single-property owners, HMO operators, or portfolio landlords. The licence fee is an upfront cost, but meeting property and management standards is equally important.

Given the extensive coverage, landlords should act promptly to avoid last-minute complications. Those new to licensing may find the process challenging.

Practical Implications and Compliance Requirements

• Application Deadline: Submit licence applications by 30 June 2026. Late applications could be refused and attract penalties.
• Licence Fee: £694 per property for a five-year licence.
• Property Standards: Landlords will need to provide evidence of compliance with health and safety standards, including fire safety, gas and electrical safety, damp and mould management, and energy efficiency, pending detailed council guidance.
• Management Practices: Maintaining tenancy records, ensuring prompt repairs, and effective tenant communication are required.

Steps Landlords Should Take Immediately

1. Verify if Your Property Is in the Designated Area: Check council maps or contact Great Yarmouth Borough Council.
2. Gather Relevant Documents: Prepare gas safety certificates, electrical safety reports, EPCs, tenancy agreements, and inspection records.
3. Conduct Property Reviews: Self-assess or commission professional inspections focused on health and safety compliance.
4. Engage Your Letting Agent Early: Ensure agents begin licence applications and compliance preparations.
5. Attend Council Information Sessions: Clarify requirements and stay informed.
6. Apply Early: Submit applications well before the 30 June deadline.

Role of Letting Agents

Letting agents should proactively:

• Explain scheme requirements and timelines.
• Assist landlords with document preparation.
• Advise on compliance standards and coordinate repairs.
• Manage licence application submissions.

Landlords without agents are advised to seek professional guidance early to reduce risks.

Considerations for Different Landlord Types

• Single-Property Landlords: May need to quickly understand obligations and consider agent support.
• HMO Operators: Check for any additional licensing requirements.
• Portfolio Landlords: Review all properties and plan for multiple fees and compliance checks.
• Accidental Landlords: Prioritise obtaining clear information and professional advice.

Next Steps

• Confirm if your properties fall within the scheme.
• Arrange compliance audits or inspections.
• Coordinate with your letting agent on licence applications.
• Mark 30 June 2026 as the final application deadline.

Support from Rentals & Sales

We offer tailored compliance audits, application assistance, pricing reviews accounting for licence costs, and tenant communication support to help landlords navigate the new regime.

Contact us for professional consultation to safeguard your rental investments.

Disclaimer: This article is informational and not legal advice. Landlords should consult Great Yarmouth Borough Council or qualified professionals for specific guidance.