At ABC Gone Estate Agents, we are dedicated to keeping landlords, tenants, and the wider community informed about important regulatory changes that impact the private rental market. Barking and Dagenham Council has introduced two new property licensing schemes aimed at improving housing standards and tenant safety. Here’s everything you need to know.
Selective Licensing Scheme – Effective from 6 April 2025
From 6 April 2025, a new Selective Licensing Scheme will apply to all single-family rental homes in Barking and Dagenham. This means landlords must obtain a licence to legally rent out their properties.
Why This Matters:
- Ensures private rental properties are safe, well-maintained, and properly managed.
- Aims to tackle poor property conditions and safeguard tenants.
Key Dates & Details:
- Licence Applications Open: 17 March 2025
- Property Inspections: Homes will be inspected before a licence is granted to confirm they meet safety and maintenance standards.
- Legal Backing: Approved by the Council’s Assembly on 18 September 2024, supported by the English Devolution White Paper empowering councils to implement large licensing schemes independently.
Landlords who fail to obtain the necessary licence could face penalties, including fines and legal action.
Additional Licensing Scheme – Now Active

As of 9 January 2025, the Additional Licensing Scheme is now active. This scheme extends licensing requirements to smaller Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) that house 3 to 4 occupants.
Why This Is Important:
- Previously, only larger HMOs were required to be licensed. Now, all shared rental properties must meet safety and quality standards.
- Inspections will be conducted to ensure compliance with safety and maintenance requirements.
Landlords managing smaller HMOs must act promptly to obtain the necessary licences and avoid potential penalties.
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Exclusive Discounts for Compliant Landlords
To promote best practices, the council is offering fee discounts for landlords who meet compliance standards:
- Silver Compliance Award: £200 off the Part B fee if the property receives a satisfactory rating during the compliance audit inspection.
- Gold Compliance Award: £250 off the Part B fee for accredited landlords with a satisfactory compliance audit result.
By maintaining high standards, landlords can reduce licensing costs and provide tenants with safer, better-managed homes.
Support and Resources for Landlords
Barking and Dagenham Council is hosting online briefing sessions to help landlords and managing agents understand the new licensing schemes. We highly recommend attending these sessions to stay informed:
- Landlord Briefing Session
- Managing Agent Briefing Session
For full details on the application process, eligibility for discounts, and compliance requirements, visit our comprehensive guide here: 👉 Read More and Subscribe to Our Newsletter
If you need further assistance, contact the council directly at PRPL@lbbd.gov.uk or reach out to ABC Gone Estate Agents for expert guidance.
ABC Gone Estate Agents
Your Trusted Partner in Property Management and Compliance