Is your property ready for October?
If you own a rental property in Brighton & Hove, October is a good time to check more than the boiler. A new licensing scheme is coming to two parts of the city and it may affect homes that landlords do not usually think of as licensable.
From 20 Oct 2026, Brighton and Hove City Council’s selective licensing scheme will extend to the Central Hove and Regency wards. It can apply to privately rented houses and flats, not just multiple-occupancy houses. Whether a particular property needs a licence depends on its location and circumstances, so check the council’s map and guidance for each address.
For me, the most useful starting point is a simple question: could you put your hands on the right documents today? Check the current gas safety record where gas is installed, the electrical inspection report, your property and tenancy details, and the record of repairs. If anything is missing or a job has been left unresolved, now is the time to deal with it.
A licence is only one part of managing a home well. Tenants need to know whom to contact and what happens when they report a problem. Landlords need clear records of inspections, decisions and completed work. Good communication and timely maintenance make life easier on both sides and help protect the property over the long term.
If you have more than one rental, do not assume that the same rules apply to every address. Check each property separately, establish whether an application is required and allow time to gather the information the council requests. A little preparation now is far better than discovering a gap when you need to act quickly.
At Khalil Properties, we help local landlords manage the practical details, from tenancy setup and compliance records to repairs and everyday communication. If you are unsure how the October change affects your property, we can review it with you and help you plan the next steps.
www.khalilproperties.co.uk | 22 Western Road, Brighton and Hove BN3 1AF | 07984 015 669 | Words: Ahmed Khalil
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