Following approval by the Government, all privately rented homes in Oxford will require a license from 1^st September 2022.

Currently 49.3% (30,500) of all homes in Oxford are privately rented, with an average rent of £1,450 for a three bedroom property. Compared to the £800 average in England as a whole.

Under the current regulations only houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) require a license in order to ensure the property is fit and suitable for the number of occupants. HMOs make up less than 15% of all rented homes in Oxford.

The commencement of the new ‘selective licensing scheme’ means that all private rented properties will require a license to ensure they are safe, well maintained and well managed. It is also required for landlords to show compliance by being a ‘fit and proper person’ and meeting the council’s waste and disposal procedures.

The scheme will run for 5 years. A 5-year license will cost £480. However, if applications are made within the first 3 months, an early bird discount will be available, lowering the cost to £400. Landlords who are accredited will only pay a fee of £280.