From April 2006, the Housing Act 2004 required certain types of house in multiple occupation to be licensed by the local housing authority if they are to continue operating legally. Controlling or managing a house in multiple occupation which ought to be licensed, but is not licensed could be subject to a maximum fine of £20,000.
What is the licence for?
Licensing for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) has been introduced to improve and maintain the standards and conditions found in HMOs. Mandatory licensing applies to some of the highest risk properties, which house some of the most vulnerable people.
What properties need a licence?
Licensing for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) has been introduced to improve and maintain the standards and conditions found in HMOs. Mandatory licensing applies to some of the highest risk properties, which house some of the most vulnerable people.
What properties need a licence?
HMOs will require a licence if the
- property is three or more storeys and
- occupied by 5 or more people living as two or more households and
- share facilities such as a kitchen or bathroom
If you own or manage a house which requires a licence you must apply for a licence.
How do I apply for a licence?
Please telephone the HMO Licensing Officer on 01225 396736 to request an application pack or visit West of England Private Housing Information to download an application pack.
Our current HMO licence fees and additional fees are listed under Related Documents.
What are the advantages of the property being licensed?
The council will be able to offer their expertise and valuable support so that properties can be managed more effectively.
Letting Agents and Landlords will be able to guarantee their tenants a certain standard of accommodation, and will no longer have to face unfair competition from those who offer poor quality accommodation.
Having a licence could also help when disputes arise because it may help to prove the quality of the accommodation that is being provided.
How do I find out if a property has a licence?
If you are a tenant and want to find out if your property has a licence, or you are concerned about a property in your neighbourhood please contact the HMO Licensing Officer on 01225 396736. The Council holds a register of licensed properties and this can be made available on request. The Council is currently working to produce an online register.
What happens if I have not applied for a licence?
If you are a landlord and have failed to apply for a licence we ask you to make an application. If your property has been licensable since April 2006 we will issue you with a reduced licence period to take account of the time you were without a licence. If your property is found through action taken by the Council, we will charge £100 penalty fee. Ultimately, if you fail to apply for a licence the Council will take prosecution action. On conviction, you may have to pay a fine of up to £20,000 and you may also be ordered to repay the rent you received during the period you were without a licence.
If the property has only just become licensable once an application has been made no further action will be taken.
Further information about HMO licensing can be found at West of England Private Housing Information and also on the Communities and Local Government website http://www.communities.gov.uk/.