Expansion to Selective licensing in Leeds presents a significant hurdle for overseas landlords because Leeds City Council will not grant a licence to anyone living outside the UK.
Starting February 9, 2026, selective licensing is expanding to cover approximately 12,500 homes across parts of Armley, Beeston, Holbeck, Burmantofts, Richmond Hill, Gipton, Harehills, Hunslet, Riverside, Farnley, and Wortley.
The "Resident Licence Holder" Requirement
Under the Housing Act 2004, a licence holder must be a "fit and proper person" and is typically the person with the most control over the property. However, Leeds policy explicitly states:
- Refusal of Overseas Holders: Applications naming a person living overseas as the licence holder will be refused.
- Legal Accountability: The council requires the licence holder to be within the jurisdiction of UK courts so they can be held legally accountable for any breaches of management standards.
Key Challenges for Overseas Landlords
- - Finding a UK Proxy: You must appoint a UK-based individual or organization (such as a letting agent) to hold the licence. This person/entity becomes legally liable for all licensing conditions, including safety checks and anti-social behaviour management.
- - Increased Management Fees: Many letting agents charge an additional fee or a higher management percentage to take on the legal risk of being a licence holder.
- - Liability Risk for Agents: Agents are often hesitant to be the licence holder because they face fines of up to £30,000 or criminal prosecution if the property fails to meet standards, even if the landlord refuses to fund the necessary repairs.
If you are facing this issue, LetsLiveLeeds can help, click this link and the team will be in touch to assist. The deadline for license application to be received by Leeds City Council is 9th of February 2026.
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