HMO licences - do you need one?
A house in multiple occupation (HMO) is a property rented to people from more than one household who share facilities like a kitchen or bathroom. Licensing rules are set nationally but run by local councils.
Mandatory licensing (England)
You need an HMO licence if 5 or more people from 2 or more separate households live in the property and share facilities.
Additional and selective licensing
Many councils also require licences for smaller HMOs, or for all private rentals in certain areas. Check your council's website for your postcode.
Typical licence conditions
- Minimum room sizes
- Fire safety: alarms, fire doors and escape routes
- Annual gas safety and up-to-date EICR
- Enough kitchens and bathrooms for the number of occupiers
- Proper waste arrangements
How long it lasts
Licences are usually granted for up to 5 years. Diarise the renewal well ahead of time.
Penalties
Running a licensable HMO without a licence can mean large fines, rent repayment orders and restrictions on regaining possession.
How Estateflow helps
Add the HMO licence as a tracked document with expiry reminders, track each sharer's rent separately and keep fire and gas certificates in one place.
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