In the news: Basildon Council has approved plans to move ahead with the creation of a landlord licensing scheme
Basildon Council's Cabinet has approved plans to move ahead with the creation of a discretionary selective licensing scheme for privately rented single-occupancy homes across the borough.
Selective licensing is a scheme that requires private landlords in designated areas to apply for a licence to rent out properties. Under this scheme, landlords renting in these areas will be required to secure a licence for each of their properties.
Cllr Adele Brown, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Housing & Infrastructure, welcomed the decision, stating: "As a council, we recognise the importance of the private rented sector and aim to ensure it remains strong, healthy, and vibrant. At the same time, we want to improve security for renters and ensure higher quality homes are available.
"Implementing a selective licensing scheme will not only elevate housing standards but also help tackle other issues like anti-social behaviour.
"While we're still in the early stages, we've asked officers to conduct further work on the proposals and present their findings to Cabinet in September."
If the council moves forward with the proposal, a consultation will take place to gather feedback from local residents, landlords, tenants, and other potentially affected groups before the licensing scheme can be officially introduced.
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Published 23 May 2025