If you’re considering becoming a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) landlord, obtaining a HMO Licence should be at the top of your to-do list. This licence is a legal requirement for HMO landlords and ensures that your property meets certain safety and amenity standards. In this guide, we’ll take you through the process of obtaining and maintaining a HMO Licence.

Understanding HMOs and HMO Licensing

Before we get started, it’s important to understand what a HMO is and the different types of HMOs. A HMO is a property that is rented out by at least three people who are not part of the same household but share facilities like bathrooms and kitchens. There are three types of HMO licensing in the UK: mandatory and additional:

1. Mandatory licensing applies to HMOs that are occupied by five or more people from two or more households
2. Additional licensing applies to HMOs that are occupied by three or more people who are from two or more households and who share facilities
3. Selective Licence. This is sometimes used by councils where specific conditions need to be met, usually around quality standards.

To be granted an HMO Licence, your property must meet certain criteria. This includes the number of people living in the property, the number of shared facilities, the layout and size of the property, and the level of fire safety precautions. You will also need to satisfy ‘fit and proper person’ criteria.

Free Landlord Resources

Applying for a HMO Licence

The process of applying for a HMO Licence can be a lengthy one, but it’s important to follow the correct steps to ensure that your application is successful. The first step is to contact your local council to find out whether your property requires a HMO Licence.

Once you’ve confirmed that you need a licence, you’ll need to submit an application to your local council. The application will require detailed information about your property and its occupants, as well as documentation like floor plans, gas and electricity safety certificates, and fire safety risk assessments.

The fees for a HMO Licence application vary depending on the council, but you can expect to pay several hundred pounds.

Preparing for a HMO Licence Inspection

After you’ve submitted your application, a council officer will inspect your property to ensure that it meets the necessary safety and amenity requirements. During the inspection, the officer will look at things like fire safety precautions, the condition of the property, and the suitability of the shared facilities.

To prepare for the inspection, you should ensure that your property meets all the necessary safety and amenity requirements. This includes things like providing adequate fire exits, ensuring that all gas and electrical appliances are safe and properly maintained, and providing adequate space for all occupants.

Maintaining Your HMO Licence

Once you’ve been granted a HMO Licence, it’s important to comply with all the necessary regulations to maintain your licence. This includes ensuring that all safety and amenity requirements are met, keeping the property in good condition, and responding to any requests or notices from your local council.

Failure to comply with HMO regulations can result in fines, legal action, and even the revocation of your licence. To avoid these consequences, it’s important to stay up to date with any changes in regulations and to maintain a good relationship with your local council.

Stay Aware of Changes

HMO requirements from councils can change over time. It’s important for you to check regularly to make sure your property hasn’t fallen into the criteria.

Conclusion

While obtaining and maintaining a HMO Licence can be a complex process, it’s essential for HMO landlords to ensure the safety and wellbeing of their tenants. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your property meets all the necessary requirements and that you comply with all the necessary regulations.

Free Landlord Resources