Oadby and Wigston to Implement Selective Licensing Scheme for Private Rented Properties

Oadby and Wigston Borough Council has announced the introduction of a new Selective Licensing scheme, set to commence on 10 November 2025. This initiative aims to regulate all privately rented properties in designated areas of Wigston and South Wigston, ensuring they meet specific safety and management standards.

Objectives of the Scheme

The primary goals of the Selective Licensing scheme are to:

  • Enhance the quality of private rented housing.

  • Address issues related to anti-social behaviour.

  • Improve community safety and reduce deprivation in targeted areas.

Landlords will be required to obtain a licence for each property they rent out, demonstrating compliance with conditions regarding gas and electrical safety, tenancy management, and property maintenance.

 

Impact on Landlords and Tenants

The implementation of the Selective Licensing scheme is expected to have a significant impact on both landlords and tenants. Landlords will need to ensure their properties comply with the required standards, which may involve additional investment in property maintenance and safety measures. Tenants can anticipate improved living conditions and greater accountability from landlords.

 

Comparison with Leicester's Scheme

Leicester City Council introduced a similar Selective Licensing scheme in October 2022, targeting areas such as Westcotes, Saffron, and Braunstone Park. The Leicester scheme has led to inspections of over 4,200 properties, uncovering more than 10,000 hazards, including fire risks and structural issues. While the scheme has been praised for improving housing standards, it has also faced criticism from landlords regarding the high application fees and the potential for increased rents.

Oadby and Wigston Borough Council has indicated that it will consider the experiences of Leicester as part of its planning process to ensure the scheme's effectiveness and fairness.

 

Next Steps for Landlords

Landlords in the affected areas are encouraged to begin the application process early to ensure compliance before the enforcement date. The council has provided resources and guidance to assist landlords in meeting the requirements of the Selective Licensing scheme.

 


 

Written by First 4 Lettings

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PERMITTED PAYMENTS

As well as paying the rent, you may also be required to make the following permitted payments:

1) Holding Deposit: Up to one week’s rental

2) Deposit: One month’s rental (5 weeks rental dependent on individual’s circumstances)

3) Payments for utilities (gas, electricity & water), communication services (telephone & broadband), Installation/Subscription of cable/satellite, TV licence and council tax

4) Default Fee (late payment of rent): If full Rent is not paid within 14 days or more of the Rent Due Date there will be a charge 3% plus the Bank of England base interest rate of the full rental amount until full payment is received

5) Default Fee (breach of tenancy agreement, any other permitted payments, under relevant legislation including contractual damages): For any breach of the tenancy agreement based on the reasonably incurred costs of the agent or landlord

6) Replacement of keys, fobs or other security devices

7) Default Fee (changes to the tenancy): An administrative charge of £50.00 or greater for any assignment, variation or novation of the tenancy agreement made at the tenant’s request (only if agreed by The Landlord and/or The Landlord’s Agent)

8) Payments in respect of early termination of a tenancy agreement at the tenant’s request


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