On this page: Anyone who owns or manages an HMO that must be licensed has to apply to the Local Authority for a Licence.
Licensing Requirements
The Local Authority must give a Licence if it is satisfied that:
- The HMO is suitable for occupation by the number of people allowed under the proposed licence.
- The proposed Licence holder and/or manager is a 'fit & proper person'.
- The proposed Licence holder is the most appropriate person to hold the Licence.
- The proposed management arrangements are satisfactory.
- The person involved in the management of the HMO is competent.
- The financial structures for the management are suitable.
The Council can refuse to issue a Licence if any of these requirements are not met.
Appeals Process
Landlords can appeal against decisions by the Council to refuse a licence, to attach conditions to a Licence, to revoke a Licence, to vary a Licence, or to refuse to vary a licence. Appeals will be heard by the Residential Property Tribunal, and these must be lodged within 28 days of the Council's decision.
For more information, please visit the Residential Property Tribunal Service's website. (www.rpts.gov.uk).
Apply for a Houses in Multiple Occupation Licence
You can apply for a Houses in Multiple Occupation licence in the following ways:
- Online application: Licensing of Houses in Multiple Occupation online application form
- Downloadable Application: Licensing of Houses in Multiple Occupation application form (PDF 111Kb)