Landlords are being reminded they must sign up to the new licensing register for any properties they rent out in Waltham Forest.

The scheme, which landlords have claimed will cause rents to rise, was agreed by the council’s cabinet last year.

Each property requires its own licence, with a cost of £500 over a five year period.

However, the council is offering a three month window in which the licence can be bought at half price.

The licensing scheme will mean private landlords will have to meet conditions, such as obtaining references for new tenants and dealing with complaints of anti-social behaviour or criminal activity in the property.

Last year, the council cited high levels of anti-social behaviour around homes of multiple occupancy as a reason for the move.

Cllr Limbajee continued: “A strong link has been identified between levels of antisocial behaviour and homes that are rented out privately.

“However, we know we have got a lot of decent, responsible landlords in the borough who are very supportive of this scheme and understand the need to tackle antisocial behaviour.”

The only way to apply for a licence will be online and those missing out on the reduced rate offer will have to pay the full cost of £500 for every licence they require.

Landlords without a licence after June 16 will be subject to enforcement action that could result in prosecution and a fine.

A judicial review quashed the scheme in neighbouring borough Enfield because of a lack of consultation. 

Croydon council postponed the same scheme.