Wandsworth’s Borough-Wide Licensing: What Landlords Must Do Now

What Has Changed? The Rise of Borough-Wide Licensing in Wandsworth

In July 2025, Wandsworth Council implemented borough-wide Additional and Selective Licensing schemes targeting all Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) and private rented properties within specific wards: Balham South, Furzedown, Tooting Bec, and Tooting Broadway. This represents a significant step up in regulatory oversight, with the council reporting over 3,400 licence applications received shortly after launch.

Why This Matters to London Landlords

These schemes are not just bureaucratic hurdles—they carry legal obligations that directly affect property operations, tenant safety, and financial risk. The council has already started inspections and enforcement actions against landlords with unsafe properties, particularly citing fire safety failings such as inadequate fire doors, alarms, and escape routes.

Understanding Your Obligations

• Licensing: If you rent out property in the targeted areas, you must apply for either an Additional or Selective Licence. Operating without a licence risks prosecution and hefty fines.
• Fire Safety Compliance: Licences are contingent on meeting fire safety standards. This includes having appropriate fire doors, alarms, clear escape routes, and maintenance records.
• Responding to Enforcement Notices: Failure to meet standards will lead to enforcement notices requiring urgent remedial work. Ignoring these can result in prosecution or licence refusal.
• Ongoing Inspections: The council will carry out inspections regularly to ensure ongoing compliance.

Impact Across Landlord Profiles

• Single-Unit Landlords: Even landlords with one property in these areas must comply fully and submit licence applications.
• HMO Operators: HMOs face particularly stringent standards and inspections, with licensing designed to improve safety and living conditions.
• Portfolio Landlords: Multiple properties in these wards mean multiple licences. Consider coordinated compliance audits to manage risk efficiently.
• Accidental Landlords: Those unaware of licensing changes should urgently review their obligations to avoid enforcement action.

Practical Next Steps

1. Submit Licence Applications Immediately: If you haven’t applied yet, do so without delay via Wandsworth Council’s official portal. Allow for processing times.
2. Conduct a Fire Safety Review: Engage a qualified professional to audit your property against the council’s fire safety requirements—check fire doors, alarms, escape routes, and signage.
3. Prepare for Enforcement: Have a plan in place to address any enforcement notices swiftly. Allocate budget and contractors in advance.
4. Keep Records: Maintain thorough documentation of all safety checks, maintenance, and communications with the council.
5. Monitor Council Communications: Stay updated on any changes or guidance issued by Wandsworth Council.

Benchmarking Compliance Costs

While Wandsworth Council has not published average compliance costs, landlords can benchmark locally by obtaining several quotes for fire safety audits and remedial works. Typical fire safety upgrades in London HMOs can range from £500 to several thousand pounds depending on property size and condition.

How Rentals & Sales Can Support You

Our team is ready to assist landlords navigating these new licensing requirements. We offer:

• Portfolio Compliance Audits: Identify risks and necessary improvements across your properties.
• Licence Application Support: Guidance through the council’s application process.
• Pricing Strategy Adjustments: Analyse how compliance costs affect rental income and advise on sustainable rent levels.
• Tenant Relations Advice: Communicate licensing and safety improvements to tenants effectively.

Final Thoughts

Wandsworth’s licensing schemes are here to stay, with strict enforcement underway. Acting swiftly to apply for licences and ensure fire safety compliance is essential to avoid costly penalties and protect your tenants.

Compliance Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Landlords should consult qualified professionals for compliance and legal matters.