Hastings Property Licensing Guide: HMO, Selective and More

Hastings, a historic coastal town in East Sussex, has a dynamic private rented sector that has seen various licensing initiatives aimed at improving housing standards and management practices. While the town previously operated a selective licensing scheme, this designation concluded in October 2020. The Hastings Borough Council's subsequent application for a renewed selective licensing scheme was refused by the Secretary of State in May 2021, meaning there is currently no active selective licensing in the borough. Landlords in Hastings must, however, remain vigilant regarding mandatory and additional House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) licensing, which continues to be enforced across the area.

The initial selective licensing scheme, implemented in October 2015, targeted specific wards within Hastings where there were concerns regarding property conditions and anti-social behaviour. This scheme covered all privately rented properties, irrespective of their occupancy, in areas such as Braybrooke, Castle, Central St Leonards, Gensing, Old Hastings, Ore, and Tressell. The council's aim was to drive up standards and ensure responsible management within these localities. Despite the expiry of this scheme and the refusal of its renewal, the council maintains a proactive approach to housing enforcement, particularly concerning HMOs.

What Landlords Need to Know

For landlords in Hastings, understanding the current licensing landscape is crucial. While selective licensing is not presently active, mandatory HMO licensing applies borough-wide to properties occupied by five or more people forming two or more separate households. Additionally, Hastings Borough Council operates an additional HMO licensing scheme, which may cover smaller HMOs not subject to mandatory licensing. Landlords must ensure their properties meet the required standards, including fire safety, gas safety, electrical safety, and adequate amenities, to comply with these regulations. Failure to obtain the correct licence for an HMO can result in significant penalties, including unlimited fines and a ban from managing properties.

The council actively monitors the private rented sector and conducts inspections to ensure compliance. Landlords are encouraged to maintain open communication with the council's housing team and to seek advice if they are unsure about their obligations. The focus remains on improving the quality and safety of rented accommodation for all residents of Hastings, ensuring that properties are well-managed and maintained to a high standard. This commitment extends to addressing issues such as disrepair and overcrowding, which can negatively impact tenants' welfare and the wider community.

Landlord Checklist

1. Verify HMO Status: Determine if your property meets the criteria for a Mandatory or Additional HMO licence in Hastings. This typically applies if three or more tenants forming two or more households occupy the property.

2. Apply for HMO Licence: If your property is an HMO, complete the appropriate application form via the Hastings Borough Council website and pay the required fee. Ensure all necessary documentation, such as gas safety certificates and electrical installation condition reports, are submitted.

3. Maintain Property Standards: Regularly inspect your property to ensure it meets all health and safety requirements, including fire safety measures, adequate heating, and structural integrity.

4. Comply with Management Regulations: Adhere to the HMO Management Regulations 2006, which cover aspects like waste management, repairs, and the provision of information to tenants.

5. Stay Informed: Keep abreast of any changes to property licensing regulations in Hastings by regularly checking the Hastings Borough Council website or subscribing to landlord newsletters.

6. Professional Advice: Consider seeking advice from a property licensing expert or landlord association if you are unsure about your obligations or require assistance with the licensing process.

Landlords in Hastings must be aware that while selective licensing is not currently in force, the council actively enforces mandatory and additional HMO licensing. Operating an unlicensed HMO can lead to severe financial penalties and legal repercussions.

By adhering to the current licensing requirements and maintaining high standards, landlords contribute to a well-regulated and safe private rented sector in Hastings. For further information on HMO licensing and application forms, please visit the Hastings Borough Council's housing licensing pages.