Your landlord must get a licence if these 2 things apply in your home:

• you share with 4 or more other people

• there are 2 or more separate households in the house

Extra licensing

In some areas, landlords of smaller HMOs must also get a licence. 

Sometimes, all private landlords in an area must get a licence.

How does HMO licensing work?

When your landlord applies for an HMO licence, the council checks if your home:

• meets the right standards, for example the size or number of bedrooms

• is properly managed, for example, the landlord gets repairs and gas safety checks done on time

The council also checks that your landlord has a good record in renting and that tenants have not complained about them.

If your landlord breaks the law, the council can:

• refuse to give them a licence

• take their licence away if they have one

Speak to the council if you think that your landlord or agent should not manage your home.

How long HMO licences last

HMO licences usually last 5 years. In some areas, landlords must apply for a licence more often.

A HMO licence cannot be given to another person. If your landlord changes, your new landlord must apply for a new licence.

HMOs that do not have to be licensed

An HMO does not have to be licensed if you rent from:

• the council

• a cooperative

• the health service

• a housing association

• the police or fire authority