Landlord guide: London Borough of Lewisham
What landlords and letting agents need to know about property licensing, safety certificates and compliance in London Borough of Lewisham.
Overview
If you let a property in the London Borough of Lewisham, first confirm which licensing regime applies to the exact address. Mandatory HMO licensing applies to properties let to five or more people from two or more households who share facilities. Additional licensing may extend to smaller HMOs, with designations running for up to five years and varying by ward or street. Selective licensing can require a licence for all private rented homes in designated areas, including single-family lets. Always check current designations and boundaries on the council's website before advertising, as these can change. The Renters' Rights Act 2025 (main provisions commencing 2026) introduced periodic assured tenancies and ended section 21 'no-fault' evictions. Ensure compliance with statutory safety requirements: a current gas safety record, an EICR no more than five years old, a valid EPC, working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, deposit protection with prescribed information, and all other prescribed documents served before the tenancy starts. Landlords also need to be aware of the new national landlord database and ombudsman.
Licensing in London Borough of Lewisham
Mandatory HMO licensing: 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: Additional licensing can extend licensing to smaller HMOs. Designations run for up to five years and are ward- or street-specific, so confirm the position for the exact address.. Selective licensing: Selective licensing can require a licence for every private rented home in a designated area, including single-family lets. Check the current designations before you advertise..
Fees and applications
Fees change each year — check the council website for the current schedule. Apply or check a designation at https://lewisham.gov.uk/myservices/housing/private-renters/private-landlord-licensing.
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 London Borough of Lewisham 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.