Landlord guide: Gravesham Council
What landlords and letting agents need to know about property licensing, safety certificates and compliance in Gravesham Council.
Overview
If you let a property in the Gravesham Council area, confirm which licensing regime the exact address falls under. Mandatory HMO licensing applies to any property let to five or more people forming two or more households who share a kitchen, bathroom or toilet. Additional licensing can extend licensing to smaller HMOs, and designations are typically ward- or street-specific for up to five years. Selective licensing can require a licence for every private rented home in a designated area. The Renters' Rights Act 2025 (main provisions commence 2026) replaces fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies with periodic assured tenancies and ends section 21 no-fault evictions. All tenancies require a current gas safety record where there is gas, an EICR no more than five years old, a valid EPC, working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, deposit protection and prescribed information, and all required prescribed documents served before the tenancy starts.
Licensing in Gravesham Council
Mandatory HMO licensing: Mandatory HMO licensing applies to properties with five or more tenants forming two or more households, who share facilities such as a kitchen or bathroom. Gravesham Council enforces this national scheme.. Additional licensing: Gravesham Council does not currently operate an additional licensing scheme for smaller Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). Landlords should always check the council's website for any future scheme introductions.. Selective licensing: Gravesham Council does not currently operate a selective licensing scheme. Landlords should periodically check the council's official licensing pages for any changes or new designations..
Fees and applications
Fees change each year — check the council website for the current schedule.
Safety and compliance
Keep an annual gas safety record where there is gas, a valid EICR every five years, a current EPC, working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and evidence that you served the required statutory documents at the start of the tenancy.
Renters' Rights Act 2025
Assured shorthold tenancies are replaced by periodic assured tenancies, section 21 is abolished and the possession grounds change. Landlords in Gravesham Council should review notices, rent increase procedure and record keeping ahead of the main provisions commencing in 2026.
Councils covered
Local rules change frequently. Always confirm licensing designations and fees with the council for the exact address before letting. This guide is general information, not legal advice.