A council in London, where landlords yields and margins are already tight, says it wants to charge £550 for a renewed selective licence operating for five years.

Harrow council is now consulting for the proposal, which would extend over one ward in its entirety. 

The council says: “The scheme will allow us to take tougher action and ensure the safety and wellbeing of residents.”

It adds that the scheme will “enable the council to ensure fire safety standards, basic amenities and general management of rented properties are being met.”

Agents, residents, tenants, landlords and resident associations are being invited to comment on the consultation exercise, which lasts until August 14. 

You can take part in the consultation here.