SelectiveEffective: May 2025
Selective Licensing Scheme 2025-2030
Selective licensing scheme covering all privately rented properties, launched May 2025, runs until 30 April 2030
Read the original announcement → Waltham Forest HMO licensing guide
HMO licence in Waltham Forest — do I need one?
Waltham Forest has 1 licensing scheme on our register, on top of the national mandatory HMO rules. This page summarises the active and upcoming schemes, links to the council source, and explains what you need to do as a landlord.
Active and upcoming schemes
Sourced from Waltham Forest announcements and tracked by our weekly scanner. Always verify directly with the council before applying.
National mandatory HMO rules (apply everywhere in England)
Regardless of any Waltham Forest-specific scheme, you also need to comply with the national mandatory HMO licensing rules under the Housing Act 2004:
- 5 or more occupants from 2 or more separate households sharing a kitchen, bathroom or toilet → mandatory HMO licence required.
- A household = single person, couple, or family unit. Unrelated sharers each count as a separate household.
- Unlicensed HMOs face civil penalties up to £30,000, Rent Repayment Orders (up to 12 months' rent).
Stay on top of HMO compliance with RentFig
RentFig tracks every HMO licence renewal alongside gas safety, EICR, EPC, fire alarm tests and right-to-rent checks. Email reminders, audit trail, AI assistant on WhatsApp. Free for one property.
Disclaimer: This page is an indicative guide based on publicly announced Waltham Forest schemes and the Housing Act 2004 standard test. It is not legal advice. Council schemes change frequently — always confirm the current position with London Borough of Waltham Forest before letting or applying for a licence.