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  1. Home
  2. Housing
  3. Licensing for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO)

Licensing for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO)

In this section

  1. You are here: What is mandatory licensing of houses in multiple occupation?
  2. What are the penalties for failing to have a licence?
  3. How do I apply for a licence for a house in multiple occupation?
  4. What do I need to make a licence application?
  5. How do I apply for a variation to a licence for a house in multiple occupation?
  6. How much does a licence cost?
  7. What amenities and space standards do I have to provide in my licensable house in multiple occupation?
  8. What is a temporary exemption notice?
  9. How do I get a temporary exemption notice for my house in multiple occupation?
  10. What are the changes to mandatory HMO licensing from 1 October 2018?

What is mandatory licensing of houses in multiple occupation?

Since April 2006, landlords who let certain types of houses in multiple occupation (HMO) have been required to have a licence.  Licensing was introduced to improve management and standards in houses in multiple occupation because these kinds of houses pose greater fire risks and there can also be problems as a result of people having to share facilities.

Under the national mandatory licensing scheme the definition of an HMO which must be licensed is one that has 5 or more people, forming 2 or more households, who are sharing facilities such as toilets, bathrooms and kitchens regardless of the number of storeys.

If you are unsure about whether you may own an HMO please contact the housing licensing team:

For further advice you can: 

Contact the Housing Licensing Team 

  • Next page: What are the penalties for failing to have a licence?

Downloads

  • Empty Homes Plan
  • Housing Services: User Guides

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