Do I need an HMO licence for 4 tenants?

HMO Licensing If your property is let to five or more tenants from more than one household, some or all of the tenants share toilet, bathroom or kitchen facilities and at least one tenant pays rent, then your property will be considered as a large HMO and will need a licence.

How do I get a HMO licence?

Applying for an HMO licence. Normally the landlord or (if there is more than one landlord) the joint landlords should apply for the HMO licence. You can obtain an application form from the local council responsible for the area your HMO is in.

Can I check if a property has an HMO licence?

Ask your local council to check if your home is registered as an HMO.

Do I need a HMO licence for 3 tenants?

Since the rule changes made in October 1 2018, all HMOs must have a licence. You must apply for a licence if 3 or more unrelated people occupy at least two different households. The maximum length for any licence is 5 years and if you wish to apply for a new one it must be renewed before the existing licence expires.

What are the rules for HMO?

Your property is defined as a large HMO if all of the following apply:

  • it is rented to 5 or more people who form more than 1 household.
  • some or all tenants share toilet, bathroom or kitchen facilities.
  • at least 1 tenant pays rent (or their employer pays it for them)

How long does a HMO licence take?

All licences are subject to an inspection by the council’s Housing Enforcement team. We aim to make a licensing decision within three months of receiving a completed application form and all required documentation.

Do HMOs need fire doors?

As it currently stands, fire doors are only legally required in Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). All doors leading to an escape route must be fire resistant and close automatically and it’s advised that fire doors are also fitted to high-risk rooms, such as the kitchen.

Who needs HMO license?

HMO licences For properties that contain occupiers that form 2 or more households and share amenities such as kitchen, bathroom, living area and any communal space require a HMO licence. The tenancy agreement is not relevant in determining if a house is a HMO, nor is the number of storeys.

What are the HMO rules?

Your home is a house in multiple occupation ( HMO ) if both of the following apply:

  • at least 3 tenants live there, forming more than 1 household.
  • you share toilet, bathroom or kitchen facilities with other tenants.