Updated October 2026
In short: Harrow Council has extended selective licensing so that most privately rented homes in six wards need a licence: Edgware and Roxeth from 2 May 2026, Greenhill and Marlborough from 6 July 2026, and Wealdstone North and Wealdstone South from 1 September 2026. Each designation runs for five years. Letting without a licence where one is needed can lead to fines, rent repayment orders and restrictions on regaining possession.
| Ward | Licensing required from | Runs until (five years) |
|---|---|---|
| Edgware | 2 May 2026 | May 2031 |
| Roxeth | 2 May 2026 | May 2031 |
| Greenhill | 6 July 2026 | July 2031 |
| Marlborough | 6 July 2026 | July 2031 |
| Wealdstone North | 1 September 2026 | September 2031 |
| Wealdstone South | 1 September 2026 | September 2031 |
Source: Harrow Council. Always check the official ward maps, because boundaries matter street by street.
Which properties need a licence?
Selective licensing covers privately rented homes let to a single household or two sharers within the designated wards. Larger shared houses usually need an HMO licence instead (mandatory or Harrow's additional HMO scheme). Some lets are exempt, including homes let by registered social landlords and certain long leasehold arrangements.
What you'll typically need to apply
- Proof of ownership or management authority
- Gas safety certificate and electrical installation condition report (EICR)
- Energy Performance Certificate
- Smoke and carbon monoxide alarm details
- Floor plan and room sizes
- Tenancy agreement and deposit protection details
- Fit and proper person declaration for the licence holder and manager
Licence conditions you'll need to meet
- Keep safety certificates up to date and provide them on request
- Deal with anti-social behaviour by tenants promptly
- Carry out regular inspections and keep records
- Give tenants a written statement of terms and the licence details
- Keep the property free from serious hazards, including damp and mould
Penalties for not licensing
Councils can issue civil penalties, prosecute, and tenants can apply for rent repayment orders. The Renters' Rights Act strengthens councils' enforcement powers and expands rent repayment orders, and licensing enforcement is a priority for many London boroughs.
How Fraser Bond helps Harrow landlords
- Checking whether your property is in a licensing ward
- Preparing and submitting licence applications
- Arranging gas, electrical, EPC and alarm compliance
- Full management that keeps you within licence conditions
- Lettings that meet the 2026 Renters' Rights rules
Letting in Harrow?
We'll check whether you need a licence and handle the application for you.
Speak to our teamRelated guides
- Harrow Additional Licensing Scheme 2025 – Landlord Guide
- Ealing Selective Licensing Scheme 2025 – Landlord Compliance Guide
- HMO Landlord Scheme Harrow – Essential Licensing Guide for 2025
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