A local council is set to introduce a selective licensing scheme later this year imposing an application fee of £500 and an additional £300 for issuing licences to landlords.

Mansfield Council conducted a consultation in 2024 seeking feedback on its proposed licensing measures which are expected to impact around 1,200 private rental properties.

Under the new scheme, landlords in the designated areas will have to obtain individual licences for each of their rental properties. The initiative aims to ensure that landlords comply with minimum housing standards by providing better living conditions for tenants.

A council spokesperson says: “We know that many of our residents in Mansfield often find that renting privately is their only option due to a lack of social housing versus demand, and most landlords provide good quality, safe accommodation.

“But there are some who take advantage of their tenants, leaving too many people living in poor conditions or having to deal with antisocial behaviour or neighbourhood crime.

“This scheme will help us tackle these problems head-on – as well as crack down on rogue landlords, making sure that all privately rented properties meet the standards we demand.”

Starting June 12, landlords will have a three-month period to submit their licence applications.

The selective licensing scheme will come into force on September 13 and will remain active until September 10, 2030.

The total licence fee is set at £800, covering both the application and issuance costs.

However, landlords applying by September 12 will be eligible for a £50 discount and members of an approved accreditation scheme will qualify for an extra £100 reduction.