Leeds Selective Licensing Scheme Comes Into Force TODAY – Are You Compliant?

9 February 2026 — Today marks a major milestone for the private rented sector in Leeds. The East, South & West Leeds selective licensing scheme has officially come into force, meaning landlords in many neighbourhoods are now legally required to hold a licence to let their properties — and failure to comply could cost you big.

What’s Changed?

From 9 February 2026, most private rented properties in the designated parts of these wards must be licensed:

• Armley

• Beeston & Holbeck

• Burmantofts & Richmond Hill

• Gipton & Harehills

• Hunslet & Riverside

• Farnley & Wortley

If your rental property falls in these areas — even if you picked it up after today — you must either already have a licence or have applied for one within 14 days of ownership.

Who Needs a Licence?

Landlords of privately rented properties in the designated zones must apply for a Selective Licence unless the property is exempt. Typical exemptions include:

✔ Holiday lets
✔ Business premises
✔ Socially-let housing
✔ Properties already covered by a mandatory HMO licence
✔ Properties empty or not being rented out

Important: Exemptions aren’t automatic — check the exact legal definitions or seek clarification from Leeds City Council.

Licence Conditions You Must Follow

Holding a licence isn’t the only requirement — you must comply with a series of ongoing conditions for the full duration of the scheme. These include:

✅ Annual gas safety checks and certification
✅ Electrical safety compliance and records
✅ Operational smoke & carbon monoxide alarms
✅ Safe and maintained furniture & furnishings
✅ Proper property management practices
✅ Tenancy records and reference checks
✅ Waste and household management
✅ Routine internal and external inspections

Failing to meet any condition can be an offence in itself — not just failing to hold the licence.

Fees & How to Apply

The licence fee is split into two parts — one on application and one on decision — with discounts available if you’re a member of the Leeds Rental Standard.

• Online application: first payment £675; second payment £425

• Paper application: first payment £800; second payment £425

• LRS member discount: £150 off (if held at application)

Apply directly via the council’s online portal or contact the Selective Licensing Team for help.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

This isn’t optional —

❌ Renting without a licence is an offence
❌ You could face prosecution
❌ Or a civil penalty of up to £30,000 (and potentially higher once the Renters’ Rights Act penalties start)

Plus, tenants may pursue Rent Repayment Orders for unlicensed periods — meaning you could be forced to repay rent you’ve already received.

Quick Compliance Checklist

1. Check your property address against the Leeds selective licensing map.

2. Have you applied for a licence? If not, do it immediately.

3. Are you meeting all licence conditions? Safety certificates and management systems must be in place.

4. Keep evidence and records — Leeds Council can ask for these at any time.

Final Word

Today isn’t just a date on the calendar — it’s a legal deadline. Whether you’re a portfolio landlord or let a single home, you must act now if you haven’t already. Don’t risk fines or enforcement action — make sure you’re compliant and ahead of the curve.

The Lettings Club has already helped Leeds landlords getting up to speed with the new requirements, if you need assistance with this process get in contact today!