Thurrock landlord licensing scheme back on track

Thurrock Council has confirmed that its controversial Selective Licensing Scheme will resume immediately, after a High Court judge refused permission for a judicial review that sought to block it.

The scheme, which requires private landlords to obtain a five-year licence costing £1,034 per property, had been temporarily halted in January following an injunction secured by a local landlord group. But with the court now ruling the council acted lawfully, enforcement can proceed.

Under the scheme, landlords and managing agents must hold a licence for rental properties within most of the borough. The licence ensures properties meet safety and condition standards, gardens are well-maintained, and anti-social behaviour by tenants is properly managed.

Council Leader Councillor Lynn Worrall said the authority had always been confident in its legal position. Officials will now issue fresh deadlines, with the scheme expected to bring rented properties under closer scrutiny.

Councillor Lynda Heath, Cabinet member for Public Protection, urged landlords to act quickly. ‘I urge all eligible landlords to apply by the deadline as there is a fine of up to £30k if we find out that landlords have been operating without this licence,’ she said.

The legal challenge, brought by local landlords, argued the licensing regime was disproportionate and failed to reflect local market conditions. They warned additional costs would inevitably be passed to tenants through higher rents.

But the High Court rejected their bid, clearing the way for enforcement. Landlords now have until 5pm on 31 March 2026 to submit applications. Those who fail to do so risk civil penalties of up to £30,000 or criminal prosecution.

The Thurrock case follows a pattern seen elsewhere in England, where landlord groups have repeatedly challenged selective licensing through the courts with limited success. The ruling reinforces the high legal threshold such challenges must meet.

It now appears clear that once a scheme has completed statutory consultation and received council approval, overturning it through judicial review is an extremely difficult prospect. Engaging during consultation remains the most effective way to influence policy.