If you’re a landlord with a rental property in Camberwell Green ward, there are two things you need to act on right now. Southwark’s selective licensing scheme is live and covers most privately rented homes in the ward. And since May 2026, Phase 1 of the Renters’ Rights Act has come into force – changing the rules on tenancies and rent increases in ways that affect every landlord in SE5. This October, review current comparable evidence and your property’s condition, including heating and maintenance needs before winter.
This isn’t the moment to wait and see. Here’s exactly what’s changed, what it costs to get it wrong, and how to stay on the right side of both.
Southwark’s selective licensing scheme: what applies in Camberwell
Southwark Council’s selective licensing scheme covers Camberwell Green ward. If you let a privately rented property there – whether it’s a flat above a shop on Denmark Hill, a terraced house near Burgess Park or a conversion close to Camberwell Church Street – you almost certainly need a licence.
The current fee structure is:
- Part A (application fee): £661.50
- Part B (licence fee): £283.50
- Total: £945 per property
This applies per property, not per landlord. If you hold a portfolio of five properties in the ward, that’s five separate licence applications.
What happens if you don’t apply
Operating without a licence isn’t a minor admin oversight. Southwark’s updated Private Sector Housing Enforcement Policy gives the council real teeth.
Unlicensed landlords can face:
- Prosecution and an unlimited fine
- A Civil Penalty Notice of up to £40,000 for relevant offences under the updated rules
- A Rent Repayment Order of up to 24 months’ rent for applicable offences under the May 2026 rules, subject to the offence, timing and tribunal decision
ONS August 2026 figures show average Southwark private rents of £2,474 a month, up 5.4% over the year. Rent repayment liability depends on actual rent, the offence period and the tribunal’s decision; it is not automatically calculated from the borough average.
HMO landlords: higher fees apply
If your Camberwell property is a House in Multiple Occupation, the fees are higher:
- Additional HMO licensing: £1,433
- Mandatory HMO licensing: £1,653.50
These thresholds reflect the council’s increased focus on housing standards across SE5. If you’re unsure which category your property falls into, check Southwark’s licensing map or speak to a local letting agent who knows the area.
The Gold Standard Charter discount
There is some relief available. Landlords who meet the criteria for Southwark’s Gold Standard Charter – demonstrating good management practices and property standards – can access a reduced fee. It’s worth checking your eligibility before you apply, particularly if you manage multiple properties in the borough.
The Renters’ Rights Act 2025: what’s changed for SE5 landlords
Phase 1 of the Renters’ Rights Act came into force in May 2026. The changes are significant and apply to most private assured tenancies in England – including every property you let in Camberwell.
Section 21 is gone
No-fault evictions via Section 21 notices have been abolished. You can no longer end a tenancy simply because you want the property back. Possession must now be sought through specific grounds under Section 8 – for example, rent arrears, antisocial behaviour or the landlord’s intention to sell or move in.
This doesn’t mean you’ve lost control of your property. It does mean you need to understand which grounds apply to your situation, and follow the correct process every time.
Private assured tenancies are now periodic from day one
Fixed-term tenancies no longer exist in the private rented sector. All new tenancies created from May 2026 are periodic – meaning they roll on a month-by-month basis from the start.
If you’ve been used to offering six or 12-month fixed terms, that model has changed. Tenants can give two months’ notice to leave at any point. Planning for void periods and re-letting needs to account for this greater flexibility on the tenant’s side.
Rent increases: the Section 13 process
You can still increase rent – but only through the formal Section 13 process, and only once every 12 months. You must give your tenant at least two months’ written notice using the prescribed form.
With Southwark rents averaging £2,474 per month and rising, getting this process right matters. An incorrectly served Section 13 notice is invalid, which means your rent increase won’t take effect – and you’ll have to start the clock again.
A practical checklist for Camberwell landlords in 2026
Whether you let one property or a larger portfolio in SE5, here’s what to work through now:
- Check the Southwark licensing map to confirm whether your property or properties fall within Camberwell Green ward
- Apply for a selective licence before letting – don’t wait until you’re already in a tenancy
- Confirm whether your property meets HMO thresholds and apply for the correct licence type
- Review your eligibility for the Gold Standard Charter discount before submitting your application
- Audit all existing tenancies to confirm they’re compliant with the new periodic tenancy rules
- Set up a calendar reminder for rent review windows – Section 13 notices must be served correctly and with proper notice
- Speak to a local letting agent who understands both Southwark’s enforcement approach and the Renters’ Rights Act in practice
How Hunters Camberwell can help
The combination of active selective licensing and a reformed tenancy framework means the compliance burden on SE5 landlords has never been higher. Whether you’re a portfolio landlord managing multiple properties across Camberwell, Peckham and beyond, or you let a single flat near Camberwell Green, getting the detail right protects your income and your investment.
Hunters Camberwell works with landlords across SE5 every day. The team understands Southwark’s licensing requirements, knows the local market, and can help you navigate the Renters’ Rights Act changes with confidence.
If you’re not sure whether your property needs a licence, or you want a clear picture of what your rental is worth in today’s market, book a free valuation with Hunters Camberwell. It’s a straightforward conversation with no obligation – and it starts with understanding exactly where you stand.
Get in touch with the Hunters Camberwell branch directly to ask about licensing support, portfolio management or any aspect of letting in SE5. The team is here to get you there.
