The private rented sector in Hammersmith & Fulham is the sixth largest in London, and eighth biggest in the country. It makes up nearly a third of all borough households (according to the 2011 census), a 10% rise since 2001. The 2021 census is expected to show a further increase in the number of privately rented flats and houses in the borough.
To help improve the sector, the council has a Landlords’ Charter, with discounted licence fees for landlords who sign up, or who belong to the London Landlords’ Accreditation Scheme or a recognised landlords’ association.
In 2017 the council introduced two licensing schemes, requiring landlords to apply to the council for a licence. Both expire in June 2022.
- One is an additional licence for houses and flats in shared occupation (HMOs) for any lets outside the standard arrangement
- The other is a selective licence covering rented homes in 128 named streets, to reduce antisocial behaviour in areas where it’s seen to be a problem
The aim is to improve property management standards, and living conditions for tenants, by refreshing those schemes in keeping with Hammersmith & Fulham Council’s aims and guidelines.
Improving private sector housing: Consultation May 2021
In May 2021 we consulted you about the future of licensing in the private rental sector from June 2022.
Improving private rented housing 2017-22
In July 2016, we consulted you about our plans for making life better for people who rent their homes in Hammersmith & Fulham. We received over 2,000 responses. In summary, the majority were in favour of introducing five measures.