Brent, northwest London's autonomous borough, is the latest to crack down on HMOs and landlords, and is also targeting the second home in double attacks on property owners.
The council's new plan to ensure landlords get HMO licenses is an extension of the previous programme that ran for five years, ending in January, covering more than 2,500 HMOs. 
Just a few days ago, neighbourhood Hounslow announced a new HMO licensing scheme to address anti-social behavior.
We want to make sure these homes are safe and of good quality for our tenants. ”
Fleur Donnelly Jackson, Cabinet member of Brent's Housing and Resident Services, said:
“We want to make sure these homes are safe and good for our tenants,” she says.
“We have seen significant improvements, but we believe that another additional HMO licensing scheme is needed to maintain and improve management of Brent's HMO.”
The Council currently ends on May 26th and is running HMO licensing consultations for 11 weeks.
Council Tax Premium
Also, starting April 1, the council will introduce a new council tax premium to its second home in the borough.
“Borough families are already facing immeasurable pressure due to the ongoing London housing crisis.
“The claim is designed to encourage property owners to use underutilized homes full-time.
Targeting
“It coincides with the rates introduced in 2024 for homes that remained empty for more than a year. This is the largest increase allowed under existing law.”
The council targets a holiday home, a home used for personal convenience, and a second home between tenants.
