Politics
Hackney Mayor Extends Selective Licensing Scheme, Matching Standards Set in Tower Hamlets and Islington
Landlords in 12 Hackney wards must now apply for licences by December 2026 or face fines up to £30,000 under the updated rules.
How we reported this
The London Borough of Hackney confirmed on 8 July 2026 that the mayor has extended the selective licensing scheme for private rented properties to cover an additional six wards. The policy requires landlords in those areas to obtain licences and meet minimum property standards before renting to tenants.
Why the extension takes effect now
Hackney Council’s housing team cited rising complaints about damp and overcrowding recorded in the 2025 annual report. The scheme already operates in six wards and will now include Dalston, Hackney Central, Homerton, London Fields, Shacklewell and Stoke Newington. Neighbouring Tower Hamlets introduced its own expanded scheme in 2024 while Islington renewed licensing conditions in early 2025.
Residents in the newly designated wards will receive letters from the council this summer explaining how to report unlicensed landlords. Tenants in multi-occupancy houses will gain access to a council inspection service that checks heating, fire safety and pest control. Landlords who comply receive a five-year licence; those who do not can be prosecuted in the magistrates’ court.
Budget figures and next steps
The 2026/27 budget paper allocates £1.2 million to administer the expanded scheme, covering 4,800 additional properties. Council officers estimate that 60 per cent of the cost will be recovered through licence fees set at £850 per property. Enforcement officers will begin door-to-door checks in January 2027.
Policy analysts note that Hackney’s licence fee sits between Tower Hamlets at £780 and Islington at £920. The council has stated it will publish quarterly compliance data on its website starting in March 2027. Applications open on 1 September 2026 through the council’s online portal.