Does My Hammersmith and Fulham Property Need a Rental Licence?

Landlords in Hammersmith and Fulham face some of London's highest property licensing fees, typically ranging from £1,200 to £1,800 per property, alongside comprehensive borough-wide licensing schemes that commenced in June 2022. This means most private landlords and all Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) across the entire borough are likely to require a licence.

Licensing Schemes in Hammersmith and Fulham

Hammersmith and Fulham Council operates two distinct property licensing schemes concurrently across the entire borough, both effective from June 2022. Understanding which scheme applies to your property is essential for compliance.

Selective Licensing Phase 1

This scheme applies to all private rented properties within specific designated wards, regardless of whether they are HMOs or single-family dwellings. The wards covered by Selective Licensing are Fulham Broadway, Town, Parsons Green, and Walham. If your property is located in one of these wards and is rented out, it falls under this scheme.

Additional Licensing (Borough Wide)

This scheme applies to all Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) across the entire borough of Hammersmith and Fulham. An HMO is generally defined as a property rented out by at least three people who are not from one 'household' (e.g. a family) but share facilities like the bathroom or kitchen. If your property meets the definition of an HMO anywhere within the borough, it requires an Additional Licence.

Scheme Timelines

Licence Fees

Hammersmith and Fulham is notable for its higher licensing costs compared to many other London boroughs. The fees are structured to cover the council's administration and enforcement costs. While exact figures can vary based on property type and application specifics, landlords should budget for the following:

These fees are typically paid in stages, with an initial application fee and a final grant fee upon approval. It's important to verify the current fee structure directly with the council's licensing department, as these figures are approximate and subject to change.

What this means for your property

Consider a landlord owning a two-bedroom flat in Fulham Broadway, rented to a single professional tenant. Since Fulham Broadway is a designated ward under the Selective Licensing Phase 1 scheme, this landlord would need to apply for a Selective Licence. They would be looking at a licence fee in the region of £1,200 to £1,800, payable to Hammersmith and Fulham Council. Failure to obtain this licence could result in significant fines and legal repercussions, including an unlimited fine and repayment of up to 12 months' rent.

Now, imagine a landlord with a four-bedroom property in Shepherd's Bush (not a Selective Licensing ward), rented to four unrelated students. This property would be classified as an HMO, and therefore requires an Additional Licence, covering all HMOs borough-wide. The landlord would face similar fees and compliance requirements as the previous example.

How to apply

Applying for a property licence in Hammersmith and Fulham involves several key steps:

1. Determine Your Scheme: First, confirm whether your property falls under Selective Licensing (if in Fulham Broadway, Town, Parsons Green, or Walham) or Additional Licensing (if it's an HMO anywhere in the borough).

2. Gather Documentation: Prepare all necessary documents, which typically include property details, tenancy agreements, gas safety certificates, electrical safety reports, Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs), and fire safety provisions.

3. Complete the Application Form: Access the official application form via the Hammersmith and Fulham Council website. Ensure all sections are accurately completed.

4. Pay the Fee: Be prepared to pay the initial application fee as part of the submission process. The remaining balance will be requested upon provisional approval.

5. Await Inspection and Approval: The council may conduct a property inspection to ensure it meets required standards. Once satisfied, your licence will be granted.

It is advisable to start the application process well in advance of any deadlines, as processing times can vary.

Check your specific property

To confirm the exact licensing requirements for your property and to begin the application process, use the official property licensing checker. This tool will provide tailored information based on your property's address and type.

Check your property here