Selective licensing in Merton
Yes. Merton operates a selective licensing scheme. Letting a covered property without a licence risks a civil penalty of up to £30,000, a rent repayment order of up to twelve months' rent, and the loss of the right to serve a section 21 notice.
What the designation says
The London Borough of Merton operates a selective licensing scheme covering four wards. The scheme was approved by Cabinet on 19 June 2023, came into force on 24 September 2023, and runs for 5 years until 23 September 2028. Applies to properties occupied by a single household or two unrelated sharers in Figge's Marsh, Graveney, Longthornton, and Pollards Hill wards. Estimated 5,000+ properties affected. Licence fee £692 (early bird discounts of two months were available, plus discounts for accredited landlords).
What this means for a landlord
A licence must be in place before the property is let, not applied for afterwards. Operating unlicensed in a designated area is a criminal offence: a civil penalty of up to £30,000 per offence, a rent repayment order of up to twelve months' rent, and a section 21 notice that cannot be served while the property is unlicensed. Mandatory HMO licensing applies separately and everywhere, wherever a property is let to five or more people forming two or more households.
Information tool, not legal advice. Confirm the position with Merton before letting.