Licensing and permits

Benefits of the scheme

All private landlords in the designated area of Liverpool must obtain a licence for each of their rented properties. This scheme has been introduced under the government’s selective licensing laws and signing up for it is compulsory.

We will ask applicants to declare convictions for dishonesty, violence or drug-related offences, or breaches of housing, landlord or tenant laws. The application form also asks questions about the property and its amenities.

Licensed properties must meet fire, electric and gas safety standards and be in a good state of repair. Licence holders must also be able to deal effectively with any complaints about their tenants and anti-social behaviour.

Once licences are granted a number of compliance checks and visits are made in each ward.