Property inspections

Some licence applications require an inspection of the property before a licence can be granted. Inspections are carried out by licensing officers working on behalf of Croydon Council.

You will normally be contacted in advance to arrange an appointment. In some circumstances, we have legal powers that allow officers to visit a property without an appointment.

Check that an officer is genuine

Every officer carries a photographic identity badge showing their name, photograph, the Croydon Council logo and the name of the our delivery partner. You should ask to see their identification before letting anyone into your property. You should not let anyone into your property if their identification does not match the details you have been given.

An officer will never ask you for a payment, for bank details, or for cash. All licence fees are paid online through our licensing portal. If anyone asks you to pay at the door, do not make a payment and report it to the licensing service on 0208 050 0276.

What the officer will inspect

The officer’s role is to check that the property meets the required standards and relevant legislation. They will assess things like: 

• fire safety and means of escape
• gas and electrical safety certificates
• room sizes and occupancy
• amenities such as kitchens and bathrooms
• property condition and any hazards
• management arrangements 

The officer will take notes, measurements and photographs.

After the inspection, the officer will discuss the outcome with you and explain whether any works are needed. The inspection report will be added to your application and a copy can be emailed to you on request.