Selective Licensing
Selective Licensing of privately rented properties in areas of Crosby and Park, Town and Frodingham Wards, Scunthorpe.
The launch date for the Selective Licensing Scheme has been delayed. We will release the new date as soon as it is available.
The council is currently not accepting Selective Licence applications.
The council will ensure that Landlords are provided with a reasonable time period in which to submit applications and further updates regarding the Licence Application processes/fees and deadlines will be made available on this page as soon as possible.
Following Cabinet approval, Selective Licencing for Area 1 (Crosby & Park and Town) was Designated on the 3 October 2024.
For further details please read the Notice of Designation.
A copy of this notice may be inspected at the Reception of North Lincolnshire Council, Church Square House, Scunthorpe, North Lincolnshire, DN15 6XQ.
The introduction of this new scheme comes after a full consultation.
- Read the summary of the Selective Licensing Consultation outcome report.
North Lincolnshire Council’s ambition is to be the best place for our people. To achieve this there is a clear commitment to ensuring that the council supports provision of a safe and healthy place for our communities to flourish and be resilient. The provision of suitable and well managed housing is a fundamental intervention in delivering this outcome.
The introduction of Selective Licensing in North Lincolnshire will make a positive contribution to the health and wellbeing of residents and demonstrates North Lincolnshire Council’s commitment to tackling health inequalities through focussing on the wider determinants of health.
All landlords of private rented homes in the selective licensing area will have to apply for a licence. Failure to do so will be an offence. The council wants to work with residents, tenants and landlords in the area and to discuss how the scheme will be introduced and further updates will be made available on this page.
What is selective licensing?
Selective licensing means that anyone that owns a property in the Town and Crosby wards in Scunthorpe and rent it out, will need to get a license from the North Lincolnshire Council.
Why is the council introducing selective licensing?
The council wants to ensure rental properties are safe, well-maintained, and properly managed. Data shows problems in these areas related to poor housing conditions, bad management, anti-social behaviour, and environmental concerns, especially with privately rented homes.
When will selective licensing start?
The scheme will begin in March 2025, and all rented homes in affected areas will need a license by that date.
How much will it cost landlords?
Landlords that follow the rules will pay around £955 for a 5-year licence (about £16 a month). Those that don’t might pay higher fees annually.
Will tenants be affected?
Yes, landlords will need to meet specific standards, but tenants shouldn’t have to move out unless the landlord fails to meet these standards. Rent increases due to licensing fees are not expected.
What happens if a landlord doesn’t get a licence?
Operating without a licence could result in fines up to £30,000 or other legal action.
Are there any exemptions?
Yes, there are some exemptions, such as student housing, long leases, and holiday lets.
How long will it last?
The scheme will last for up to five years.
Will the council make money from this?
No, fees will only cover the costs of running the scheme.
Proposed fee for selective licensing
The proposed fee for a five year license under the selective licensing scheme is £955 in total.
The council may consider issuing a licence for a lesser period of time than five years in certain prescribed circumstances such as non-compliance and in such situations, the fee to be paid would reflect that.
Contact
Should you require any further information about the Councils Selective Licensing proposal please do not hesitate to contact us through one of the contacts detailed below:
Email: housing@northlincs.gov.uk
Write to: North Lincolnshire Council, Selective Licensing Consultation, Environment, Health & Housing, Church Square House, 30 – 40 High Street, Scunthorpe, North Lincolnshire, DN15 6NL
Telephone: 01724 296051