Islington’s Additional Licensing Scheme: What London Landlords Must Do Before February 2026

What Is Changing in Islington’s Rental Licensing?

From 1 February 2026, the London Borough of Islington will introduce an Additional Licensing Scheme for privately rented properties. Unlike the existing mandatory HMO licensing, this scheme broadens the scope to include other types of rented homes that do not currently require a licence.

The council’s aim is to improve housing conditions and management standards across a wider range of rental properties. While the exact property categories covered will be clarified in council guidance, landlords should expect licensing to apply to smaller HMOs and possibly other multi-occupancy or single-let homes.

Why This Matters to Landlords

This change raises the compliance bar for many landlords in Islington, with practical consequences:

• Licensing Requirement: Landlords and letting agents must apply for an additional licence from Islington Council for any properties covered by the scheme.
• Property Standards: Licensed properties must meet specific health, safety, and management standards before the licence is granted.
• Enforcement Risks: Failure to obtain a licence or comply with conditions can lead to financial penalties and legal action.

For landlords with single units, small HMOs, or mixed portfolios in Islington, this means reviewing which properties fall under the new requirements and budgeting for licence fees, possible works, and administrative time.

Identifying Affected Properties

Islington Council’s detailed criteria for the scheme will be published ahead of the launch, but landlords should start by:

• Reviewing all rental properties in Islington to establish which are HMOs and which might now require licensing beyond the current mandatory scheme.
• Considering properties with shared facilities or multiple occupants that do not meet the mandatory HMO threshold but might be captured under additional licensing.

If in doubt, landlords can consult the free guide from London Property Licensing, which explains likely coverage and planning rules affecting these properties.

Preparing for Licence Applications

To meet the 1 February 2026 start date, landlords should:

• Conduct thorough property inspections to identify any works needed to comply with council standards — such as fire safety, sanitation, and property management protocols.
• Gather required documentation, including gas safety certificates, electrical installation condition reports, and tenancy agreements.
• Plan for the licence application process early, as council processing times can vary and delays might risk non-compliance.

Communicating With Tenants

Landlords should inform tenants about the licensing scheme and how it benefits them by improving property standards and management. Transparency helps maintain good tenant relations and can smooth the inspection and compliance process.

Tailoring Actions by Landlord Profile

• Single-unit landlords: Check if your property falls under the new scheme and prepare to apply for a licence and meet standards.
• HMO landlords: Review whether your smaller HMOs beyond mandatory licensing are now included and ensure all properties comply fully.
• Portfolio landlords: Conduct a comprehensive portfolio audit to identify all affected units and plan staggered licence applications if necessary.
• Accidental landlords: If you rent out a property in Islington, verify whether it requires licensing under the new scheme and seek professional advice if uncertain.

Next Steps for Landlords

1. Audit your Islington portfolio now. Identify which properties will need an additional licence.
2. Schedule property assessments. Address any remedial works needed to meet licensing standards.
3. Prepare licence applications ahead of time. Avoid last-minute submissions that could lead to enforcement risk.
4. Inform tenants proactively. Explain the scheme’s benefits and any upcoming inspections.
5. Consult expert resources. Use the London Property Licensing guide and consider professional support for compliance and application management.

How Rentals & Sales Can Support You

Our team offers tailored portfolio reviews, compliance audits, and licence application assistance to help you navigate Islington’s Additional Licensing Scheme smoothly. We also provide pricing strategy advice to factor in licensing costs. Contact us early to ensure your properties meet the new requirements well before February 2026.

Compliance note: This article is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Landlords should consult Islington Council and qualified professionals to ensure full compliance with the Additional Licensing Scheme.