London leads the way in record year of licensing and enforcement

London was at the forefront of a record-breaking year of property licensing schemes and enforcement in the UK in 2023, one firm reports.

According to data from Kamma, there were 32 new licensing schemes introduced across the country last year, and another 18 were under consultation.

However, more than £9.87 million in fines were imposed on the capital’s criminal landlords and agents.

The firm’s data also reveals that London boroughs accounted for 87% of the active licensing schemes or consultations in the UK last year.

With more schemes expected to launch in 2024, including in Nottingham, Warwick, Greenwich and Islington, Kamma says that landlords and agents will have to be more vigilant than ever to comply with the increasing regulations.

‘Landmark year for licensing and enforcement’

Kamma’s chief executive, Orla Shields, said: “2023 has been another landmark year for licensing and enforcement.

“A record breaking 32 new schemes were launched last year, a figure that hits nearly 50 when considering active consultations.

“The beginning of 2023 saw a commitment from the government for increased enforcement and a crackdown on rogue landlords – our data shows that this has certainly been delivered.”

Total fines hitting an unprecedented £9.87 million

Ms Shields continued: “With the total fines of the year hitting an unprecedented £9.87 million in 2023, 2024 will see fines reach over the £10m mark.

“The state of enforcement in London is unlike anything we’ve seen in the past, with over 87% of London boroughs with an active scheme or consultation in place.

“With so many more schemes for London in the woodwork, it will be more important than ever this year for landlords and agent to keep a keen eye on increasing regulations.”

She adds: “2024 already promises plenty of new schemes around the corner, and if 2023 is anything to go by, this year will be another landslide year for fines and enforcement.

“Landlords and agents will have to be more diligent than ever in 2024.”

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