Selective Licensing Scheme consultation now open

houses

Views on a new proposed selective licensing scheme are being sought by Enfield Council.

A 12-week consultation has been launched via a questionnaire to seek feedback from private rented sector tenants, residents, landlords, letting and managing agents, businesses operating in Enfield, community groups, and landlord organisations.

The council believes that the proposed scheme would have several benefits to residents, tenants, landlords and the wider community to help to address poor housing standards and ensure private renters are living in safe, well-maintained, and compliant homes.

Licensing ensures that landlords are managing their tenants and properties, as poor management can impact on local communities. The scheme also provides clearer guidance for landlords on their responsibilities.

The council is proposing that a new Selective Licensing Scheme be introduced in September 2026 for up to five years, which would cover 17 wards in the borough, up from 14 wards currently.

But before a decision is made, the council would like to hear views about the proposal and any alternatives it should consider.

An independent agency, MEL Research, is running the consultation on the council’s behalf and will report on the results from completed questionnaires, written responses, and consultation meetings.

Three online consultation meetings will be held to provide further information and to collect views on: Wednesday 5 November from 5pm to 6.30pm; Thursday 13 November from 6pm to 7.30pm and Wednesday 19 November from 4pm to 5.30pm. Advance registration is advised.

Cabinet Member for Planning and Regulatory Services at Enfield Council, Cllr Susan Erbil, said: “The current selective licensing scheme is due to end in August next year, so it is important the Council holds a public consultation to hear from a wide range of people as possible.

"We would like to hear the views of all residents, businesses, and landlords, so I would urge you to provide your views and feedback by completing our 20-minute questionnaire.

“Your views will enable us to continue to maintain and improve housing standards, and management of properties that are privately rented to single-family households.”

The current Selective Licensing Scheme will end in August 2026. The scheme has been effective in improving housing conditions and reducing antisocial behaviour.

You can find out more and complete the consultation questionnaire here.

The closing date for comments and responses is Sunday 28 December 2025 at 11.59pm.

The results will be published in a detailed report that will clearly show the outcome of the consultation.

A decision on the proposal will be made by Cabinet in a public meeting at Enfield Civic Centre in Spring 2026.

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