Houses in multiple occupation (HMOs)

HMOs that need a licence, how to apply for or renew a licence, licence costs, basic standards for HMOs, report an unlicensed HMO.

Apply for or renew a HMO licence

A HMO licence is valid for up to 3 years and is subject to you meeting our: 

  • licensing conditions
  • housing standards requirements

If you rent out more than one HMO, you will need a separate licence for each property. This includes a building where there are a number of self-contained flats.

Documents you need to show us

For all licence applications or renewals, you will need to provide us with the following:

  • a floor plan of the property (a line drawing including dimensions)
  • an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)
  • a Gas Safe Certificate (if applicable)

Extra documents needed (for mandatory HMO licences only)

You must also provide us with:

  • a fire risk assessment
  • an automatic fire detection certificate
  • a Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) certificate

Licence costs

The cost for each licence depends on: 

  • the type of licence – mandatory or additional licence
  • if it is a new application or a renewal

To find the licensing costs, go to HMO licensing costs.

How to apply

You can use our online form below to apply for or renew a licence for:

  • a mandatory HMO licence
  • an additional HMO licence

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View or download our guide to HMO licence applications.

Application process

Mandatory HMO licences

The application process should take no longer than 8 weeks once your application has been validated. We will inform you if it may take longer. 

Additional HMO licences

An application process may take longer at the start of the scheme due to the number of applications expected. We will process them as quickly as possible.

Contact our Housing Standards team

You can contact us online for advice on HMO licences and the legislation.

Contact us