Coventry Selective Licensing: Areas, Fees and How to Check

Coventry City Council manages a significant private rented sector, with an estimated 6,800 Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) making up over a quarter of the city's private rental market. To ensure these properties are safe, well-managed, and of good quality, the council operates a comprehensive licensing scheme that extends beyond the national mandatory requirements.

Since May 2020, Coventry has had a city-wide Additional Licensing scheme in place. This scheme was reviewed and renewed, with the current designation taking effect from 4 May 2025 and running until 2030. This means that alongside properties that fall under the national Mandatory HMO Licensing (those with five or more occupants from two or more households), a wider range of smaller HMOs also require a licence to operate legally in Coventry.

Coventry Property Licensing Schemes

What Landlords Need to Know

Operating a rented property in Coventry requires a clear understanding of the local licensing landscape. The city-wide Additional Licensing scheme applies to most HMOs not covered by the mandatory scheme. This includes properties occupied by three or four tenants from different households and certain buildings converted into self-contained flats (known as Section 257 HMOs) that do not meet specific building regulation standards.

The application process involves a two-part fee structure. The first part, the Stage 1 fee, is payable upon submitting the application. An application is not considered 'duly made' until this initial fee is paid. The second part, the Stage 2 fee, is required within 14 days of the council issuing its 'Intention to grant the licence'. The total fee varies depending on the licence duration and the landlord's compliance history. For example, a new five-year licence for a compliant property costs £944, whereas a one-year licence for a property found to be operating without a licence for over 12 weeks can cost up to £2,241.

Coventry City Council also encourages good practice through its free, voluntary landlord accreditation scheme. Landlords who become accredited may be eligible for benefits such as reduced licence fees and longer licence terms, providing a clear incentive for maintaining high standards of property management.

Landlord Checklist

1. Identify Your Property Type: Determine if your property is a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) under the Housing Act 2004. This includes properties shared by three or more tenants who are not from the same household.

2. Check Licence Requirements: Verify if your property falls under the Mandatory or Additional Licensing scheme. The Additional scheme covers most HMOs in Coventry not covered by the mandatory rules.

3. Gather Required Documentation: Prepare all necessary documents for your application, including floor plans, gas safety certificates, and electrical installation condition reports (EICR).

4. Submit Your Application and Pay Stage 1 Fee: Complete the online application form via the Coventry City Council website and pay the initial Stage 1 fee to ensure your application is processed.

5. Ensure Property Standards are Met: Before a licence is granted, ensure your property meets all required safety and amenity standards, including fire safety measures and adequate facilities for the number of occupants.

6. Pay Stage 2 Fee Promptly: Once you receive the 'Intention to Grant a Licence' notice, pay the remaining Stage 2 fee within the specified 14-day period.

7. Explore Landlord Accreditation: Investigate the benefits of joining the council's free landlord accreditation scheme to potentially reduce future licensing costs and demonstrate your commitment to quality housing.

Important Note: Operating a licensable property without a licence is a serious offence. Coventry City Council actively identifies and takes enforcement action against unlicensed HMOs, which can result in significant fines or prosecution. It is crucial to ensure your property is compliant with all local regulations.

By adhering to these licensing requirements, landlords contribute to a safer and better-quality private rented sector in Coventry. For the most current information, including detailed fee structures and application forms, landlords should consult the official Coventry City Council website.

[1] Coventry City Council, Public Report, Cabinet, 13th February 2024. Available: https://edemocracy.coventry.gov.uk/documents/s59350/Additional%20HMO%20Licensing%20Scheme%202025%202030.pdf