Private landlords in Brent will be forced to pay £350 to subscribe to a compulsory five-year licensing scheme after council chiefs gave the go ahead to the proposals.

The plans are aimed at clamping down on rogue landlords who allow their tenants to live in insanitary and overcrowded conditions.

Under the proposals, all private landlords in the Harlesden, Willesden Green and Wembley Central wards must be licensed before letting out their homes.

The council would also provide support to neighbours concerned about fly-tipping and other anti-social behaviour from some privately-rented homes.

Cllr Margaret McLennan, Brent Council’s lead member for housing, said: “We want to create a minimum standard for landlords and properties to ensure that residents can expect a good standard of housing.

“It has been successful in other areas of London and it will tackle the minority of private landlords who give their tenants a raw deal and also help stamp out anti-social behaviour by tenants.”

Town hall bosses will consider whether any discounts should be applied to the sign-up fee pending further consultation.

In addition, a licence will also be required by those who rent out smaller houses of multiple home occupancy in Brent from New Year’s Day 2015, following a decision by the council executives in April.

That new scheme will come into effect on January 1 2015 and will be reviewed annually. Landlords will be able to apply for licenses from November 1.