Question 1

What is an HMO?

Accepted Answer

A House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) is a property rented out by at least 3 people who are not from the same household but share facilities such as the bathroom and kitchen. It could be a house, flat, or bedsit. The definition is set out in the Housing Act 2004.

Question 2

What is mandatory HMO licensing?

Accepted Answer

Mandatory HMO licensing applies across England and Wales to properties occupied by 5 or more people from 2 or more separate households. Since October 2018, the storey requirement was removed — the licence is needed regardless of the number of floors.

Question 3

What is additional licensing?

Accepted Answer

Additional licensing is a scheme set up by individual local authorities to cover smaller HMOs that don't meet the mandatory threshold — typically 3-4 occupants from 2+ households. Not all councils have additional licensing, so you need to check with your local authority.

Question 4

What is selective licensing?

Accepted Answer

Selective licensing requires landlords to obtain a licence for all private rented properties in a designated area, regardless of whether they are HMOs. Councils can introduce selective licensing to tackle problems like anti-social behaviour or poor housing conditions in specific areas.

Question 5

What are the penalties for not having a licence?

Accepted Answer

Operating an unlicensed HMO or failing to have a required selective licence can result in an unlimited fine, a rent repayment order of up to 12 months' rent, and a banning order. You also cannot serve a Section 21 notice while the property is unlicensed.

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