Question 1

Does my rental property need a landlord licence?

Accepted Answer

Whether your property needs a licence depends on where it is located and how it is used. All HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation) with 5 or more occupants require a mandatory licence. Many councils also operate selective licensing schemes covering all private rented properties in a defined area, and additional licensing schemes for smaller HMOs. Use the Tuxa checker to instantly find out if your property is in a licensing area.

Question 2

What is selective licensing?

Accepted Answer

Selective licensing is a scheme introduced under the Housing Act 2004 that allows local councils to require all private landlords in a designated area to obtain a licence, regardless of the property type or number of occupants. Councils use selective licensing to tackle problems such as anti-social behaviour, low housing demand, or poor property conditions. Failure to obtain a licence can result in a fine of up to £30,000 or a rent repayment order.

Question 3

What is additional licensing?

Accepted Answer

Additional licensing extends HMO licensing beyond the mandatory national standard. Councils can designate areas where smaller HMOs (typically those with 3 or more occupants forming two or more households) must also be licensed. Additional licensing schemes are common in university cities and areas with high concentrations of shared housing.

Question 4

What happens if I rent a property without a licence?

Accepted Answer

Renting a property without the required licence is a criminal offence. Landlords can face an unlimited fine in court, or a civil penalty of up to £30,000 issued by the council. Tenants can also apply for a Rent Repayment Order, which can require the landlord to repay up to 12 months of rent. Unlicensed landlords cannot serve a valid Section 21 notice to regain possession of their property.

Question 5

How do I find out if my area has a selective licensing scheme?

Accepted Answer

The quickest way is to use the Tuxa property licence checker. Enter any UK address or postcode and Tuxa will instantly check against all 361 UK councils to show whether the property is in a selective, additional or mandatory HMO licensing area. Results are free to view.