What happens when a licensing scheme ends?
Additional and selective licensing schemes can last for up to five years. Several London schemes reach that limit in 2026–2028, so it's worth knowing what happens next.
Updated 8 November 2026
Your licence ends with the scheme
A licence granted under an additional or selective scheme can't outlast the scheme itself. When the scheme ends, those licences end too – even if they were granted only recently.
Mandatory HMO licences are different: mandatory licensing is national and doesn't end, so a mandatory licence runs for its full term (usually up to five years).
If the council renews the scheme
Most London councils renew their schemes, often with changes: a different area, new fees, or extra types of property such as flats in purpose-built blocks. A new scheme means a new licence – your old one doesn't carry over, and you'll need to apply again under the new rules.
Councils usually consult before renewing, and some offer early-bird discounts for applications made before the new scheme starts.
Check your property in a minute
Our free licence checker tells you which licence your property needs, borough by borough. If you need one, we prepare the whole application at a fixed price.
Councils can now act faster
Since 23 December 2024, councils no longer need government approval to bring in a selective licensing scheme, whatever its size. Expect more schemes, bigger areas and quicker renewals.
If the scheme isn't renewed
If a scheme ends and isn't replaced, properties that only needed a licence under it no longer need one – but licence conditions and other housing standards still apply, and a new scheme can follow later.
Stay ahead of changes
Our Licence Watch service keeps an eye on the boroughs you let in and tells you when a scheme is being consulted on, renewed or extended – so you're never caught out. And when you need a new licence, we'll prepare it for you.
Questions landlords ask
Does my licence carry over when a scheme is renewed?
No. A licence under an additional or selective scheme ends when that scheme ends. If the council brings in a new scheme, you need to apply for a new licence under it.
How long do licensing schemes last?
Additional and selective schemes can last up to five years. Mandatory HMO licensing is national and permanent, and individual licences usually last up to five years.
Do councils need government approval for selective licensing?
Not any more. Since 23 December 2024 councils in England can introduce selective licensing schemes without government approval.
Check your property in a minute
Our free licence checker tells you which licence your property needs, borough by borough. If you need one, we prepare the whole application at a fixed price.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Councils change their schemes and fees, so we confirm the position for your address before we accept your job.