Croydon Council Landlord Licensing Scheme – 2025 Update

Croydon Council has had a complex history with landlord licensing, with past schemes aimed at improving housing conditions and tenant safety. However, as of 2025, there is no borough-wide selective licensing scheme in place. This article explores the current licensing requirements for landlords in Croydon, including the existing HMO (Houses in Multiple Occupation) licensing scheme and the past Selective Licensing Scheme (2015–2020).

Is There a Selective Licensing Scheme in Croydon?

From October 2015 to September 2020, Croydon Council operated a Selective Licensing Scheme, requiring all private landlords to obtain a licence for their rental properties. The aim was to:

✅ Improve housing standards
✅ Reduce anti-social behaviour
✅ Hold landlords accountable for poor property management

In July 2020, Croydon Council applied to renew the scheme, but in June 2021, the government rejected the application. As a result, there is currently no active selective licensing scheme in Croydon.

HMO Licensing in Croydon – Do You Need a Licence?

Although selective licensing is not currently required, landlords must still obtain a licence for certain HMOs.

What is an HMO?

An HMO (House in Multiple Occupation) is a rental property occupied by three or more unrelated tenants who share facilities such as a bathroom and kitchen.

Types of HMO Licensing in Croydon

1️⃣ Mandatory HMO Licensing

• Applies to all HMOs with five or more tenants
• Ensures fire safety, proper facilities, and landlord responsibility

2️⃣ Additional HMO Licensing (Previously Considered)

• In some London boroughs, additional HMO licensing applies to smaller HMOs with 3–4 tenants
• Croydon currently does not have additional licensing requirements

Landlords operating an HMO without a licence may face fines and legal action.

How Fraser Bond Can Help Landlords in Croydon

At Fraser Bond, we help landlords navigate licensing requirements and stay compliant with local regulations. Our services include: