Landlords with privately rented properties in parts of East Marsh are being urged to apply for their Selective Licence now to avoid late fees and the risk of significant enforcement action.
North East Lincolnshire Council’s Selective Licensing Scheme came into force on 8 April 2026, and landlords operating within the designated area have until 8 October 2026 to submit their licence applications.
However, council officers are encouraging landlords not to leave it until the last minute and to apply as soon as possible to ensure they remain compliant with the law and avoid additional costs.
Landlords can check whether their property falls within the designated Selective Licensing area by visiting: Selective Licensing | NELC
The five-year scheme has been introduced to improve housing standards, strengthen property management, tackle anti-social behaviour and create safer, more sustainable neighbourhoods for residents.
Under the scheme, landlords are legally required to obtain a licence for every privately rented property they own within the designated area. Applications must be submitted online through Home Safe: North East Lincolnshire Council Selective Licensing | Home Safe Scheme
Landlords who fail to apply by the deadline will be charged a £200 late fee. Landlords who fail to obtain a Selective Licence for a private rented property can face a civil penalty of up to £40,000, an unlimited court fine, and Rent Repayment Orders demanding up to 12 months’ rent be paid back.
The total licence fee is £1,000, payable in two stages:
- Part A: £600 (non-refundable and payable when applying)
- Part B: £400 (payable once the licence is approved)
Accredited landlords can benefit from a reduced fee of £725.
Cllr Paul Batson, Portfolio Holder for Housing, Infrastructure and Transport at North East Lincolnshire Council, said: “We are urging landlords not to wait until the October deadline and to submit their applications now. Selective Licensing plays an important role in improving housing standards, protecting tenants and supporting responsible landlords who already provide good-quality homes.
“Applying early will help landlords avoid additional fees and ensure they remain compliant with the new legal requirements. This scheme is about creating safer homes, better managed tenancies and stronger communities for everyone living in East Marsh.”
The scheme will deliver a range of benefits for local residents, including:
- Improved property standards and safer homes
- Stronger action against poor housing conditions
- Reduced anti-social behaviour
- Better managed tenancies
- Faster resolution of housing-related concerns
It also helps ensure landlords meet essential safety requirements relating to fire safety, gas safety and electrical standards.
Landlords who have not yet applied are encouraged to do so immediately.
For further information or support with an application, contact Home Safe at: [email protected] or call 0330 6600 282.
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