Selective licensing is coming to Hove

Here’s what landlords need to know

If you’re a landlord in Central Hove or Regency, there’s an important change coming.

From 20 October 2026, Brighton & Hove City Council’s selective licensing scheme will expand to these areas, meaning your rented property may need a licence. Landlords will be given until 17 November 2026 to submit an application and pay a fee.

At Winn Estates, we can help you understand what’s required, get your property and paperwork in order, and stay on top of the new requirements without adding more hassle to your day.

What is selective licensing?

Selective licensing gives councils additional powers to regulate privately rented properties. The aim is to improve standards and make sure rented homes meet the appropriate gas, electrical, and fire safety requirements.

The scheme is already in place across Kemptown, Moulsecoomb & Bevendean, Queens Park, and Whitehawk & Brighton Marina. 

What do landlords need to do?

Applications cannot be submitted before 20 October, but there’s plenty you can do beforehand.

First, you need to check whether your property falls within one of the designated areas. You’ll also want to decide who will be named as the licence holder and gather information about the property, its occupants, and how it is managed.

It’s also worth using this time to make sure there are no outstanding safety or maintenance issues that could cause problems with your application.

Getting your paperwork together

A licence application requires quite a lot of supporting information, so getting organised early will make the process much easier.

Depending on your property, you may need:

• A valid Gas Safety Certificate
• An Electrical Installation Condition Report
• A PAT test certificate for appliances you provide
• An Energy Performance Certificate
• A simple plan of the property
• Your current tenancy agreement
• Property inspection records

You might also be asked to provide details of your mortgage lender, managing agent, and any relevant landlord accreditation.

Avoid the last-minute rush

Each property needs its own application and payment, with no facility for bulk submissions. Fees must also be paid in full, as payment plans and BACS transfers are not available.

If you have several properties in Central Hove or Regency, this can make the process fairly time consuming. Preparing now gives you the best chance of completing everything well before the 17 November deadline.

We’re here to help

The key is making sure your property and paperwork are ready before the application deadline.

Winn Estates can help you prepare by checking that the right information is in place, helping you stay on top of the documents you’ll need, and identifying any maintenance or safety issues that may need attention before you apply.

If work is required, our in-house maintenance team can help get your property ready, while our wider management service can support you with inspections, tenancy records, and ongoing compliance.

We’re here to make the process as straightforward as possible, helping you meet the new requirements without unnecessary delays or last-minute stress.

Get in touch with the Winn Estates team today to get started.