HMO Licensing
Landlords must apply for a licence if they operate a ‘house in multiple occupation’ (HMO).
You need a mandatory HMO licence if:
- five or more unrelated people live at the property and
- all or some of them share a toilet, bathroom or kitchen
We usually process HMO licence applications within 6 to 8 weeks. If it is likely to take longer we will let you know and we will endeavour to visit all HMO’s before issuing any licence.
You may be fined or prosecuted if you operate an HMO without a licence.
HMO licences are usually granted for five years. If the property does not have planning permission or there are known management failings, the licence period may be shorter. This will enable the landlord to address these issues and work towards a full, five year licence, with support from the HMO team.
| Number of Occupiers | 5-9 | 10-14 | 15-19 | 20+ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Application | £871 | £917 | £963 | £1008 |
| Renewal Application | £803 | £839 | £874 | £909 |
Apply Online
You can apply for your HMO licence on the GOV UK website.
Make sure you have current, digital copies of the following documents ready to upload as part of your application:
- Gas Safety Certificate
- Electrical safety inspection certificate
- Fire safety installation and commissioning and / or routine test certificate
- Emergency light installation certificate (where installed)
- Tenancy agreement if the property is occupied
- Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating
- Floor plans
- Fit and Proper Person check
If you have specific questions regarding an application or want further advice please contact the team at privatesectorhousing@northwarks.gov.uk