Residents across Havering can now have their say on proposals that aim to improve and promote the private rental housing sector.
With private rented housing now making up 19 percent of the borough’s housing market, it has never been more important to improve the condition and quality of properties and create a fairer environment for both tenants and responsible landlords.
The Council is inviting tenants, landlords, property agents and anyone with an interest in the private rented housing to have their say on proposals to introduce property licensing schemes in parts of the borough.
The consultation will look at two potential schemes and if approved, they would apply to private rented homes.
The schemes are known as selective licensing and additional houses in multiple occupation (HMO) licensing.
Selective licensing applies to homes that are occupied by single family households or two sharers.
Additional HMO licensing applies to small-shared houses that are occupied by residents from three or four households, that share a kitchen and or bathroom and are not covered by the existing national mandatory HMO licensing scheme.
The schemes will require landlords to meet certain standards with regards to the safety and condition of the property.
This will help the Council to clamp down on rogue landlords and ensuring better quality homes in the private sector.
Feedback and opinions are being sought far and wide, from as many people and organisations as possible including those who have an interest or personal experience with the private rented sector in Havering.
The Council is committed to its ambition to support residents to stay safe and well and help towards making Havering a great place to live, work and enjoy.
This is underpinned by the Council’s vision to promote good private sector housing for local people.
Councillor Barry Mugglestone, Havering’s Cabinet Member for Environment, said:
“Havering has more residents than ever before, and we have some of the highest levels of private renting compared to other London boroughs.
"While many people rent without issue, sadly our officers continue to receive complaints from tenants living in substandard and dangerous accommodation,
"Tenants are often unsure of where to turn and these are some are our most vulnerable residents.
Our proposals will help us to target rogue landlords and those letting properties that are unsafe and in poor condition, helping us to improve standards for all.
“We are committed to continuing to work positively with responsible landlords, educating those that may not be aware of their responsibilities, plus, driving out the minority who knowingly disregard housing laws.
“The Council acknowledges that the majority of landlords operate their businesses professionally and that the private rented sector provides housing options for local people.
“As the number of rental properties continue to grow in Havering, ensuring our residents are safe in their homes and neighbourhoods is an absolute priority for the Council.
“That’s why we want to help ensure that as many people as possible have the chance to take part in our consultation, share their views and comment on our proposals.
"All views are important and can make a real difference to our plans.”
If the two schemes are approved, they could come into force in early 2026.
The Council wants to hear from all tenants, landlords, agents, residents and those that study or work in the borough.
The consultation runs until 6 July 2025.