Basildon: landlord licensing

Basildon does not currently run a selective or additional licensing scheme, but mandatory HMO licensing still applies. Here is the full picture.

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Proposed / under review

These schemes are consulted on or otherwise not yet formally in force. They do not require a licence today but are worth watching.

Selective licensing

proposed

Feasibility stage: Cabinet approved further work toward a selective scheme (Sept 2025). No areas, dates or fees yet.

Dates
To be confirmed
Council source →

Mandatory HMO licensing (applies everywhere)

Regardless of local schemes, any property in Basildon let to 5 or more people forming 2 or more households, who share a kitchen, bathroom or toilet, needs a mandatory HMO licence under the Housing Act 2004. Licences last up to 5 years and the fee is set by the council.

Penalties for operating unlicensed

  • Civil penalty of up to £40,000 per offence (raised from £30,000 on 1 May 2026).
  • Rent Repayment Order of up to 24 months' rent, claimable by the tenant.
  • Unlimited fine on criminal prosecution, plus possible banning order.
  • Once the national PRS Database is live, unregistered landlords can be blocked from regaining possession.

Notes

Pre-consultation. Mandatory HMO licensing only in force.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a landlord licence in Basildon?

Basildon does not currently operate a selective or additional licensing scheme. However, mandatory HMO licensing still applies to any property let to 5 or more people forming 2 or more households and sharing facilities.

What is the penalty for an unlicensed property in Basildon?

Operating a licensable property without a licence can lead to a civil penalty of up to £40,000 per offence, a Rent Repayment Order of up to 24 months' rent, an unlimited fine on prosecution, and a banning order for serious or repeat offenders.

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Data verified against council sources as of July 2026. PRSCheck is an information service, not legal advice. Many schemes are designated at street or part-ward level; confirm the exact boundary for your address with the council before relying on this page. Browse all councils.