Who can hold the HMO Licence?

The owner/landlord or someone they nominate, such as a manager or agent can hold the licence, provided that person is in agreement. The licence must be held by most appropriate 'fit and proper' person. In determining whether a licence holder is 'fit and proper', we will consider:

  • any previous convictions relating to violence, sexual offences, drugs and fraud
  • whether the proposed licence holder has broken any laws relating to housing or landlord and tenant issues
  • whether the person has been found guilty of unlawful discrimination
  • whether the person has previously managed HMOs that have broken any approved code of practice

What criteria must you meet to be granted a licence

To grant you a licence, we must be satisfied that:

  • the proposed licence holder and any manager of the property is a fit and proper person
  • the proposed licence holder is the most appropriate person to hold the licence
  • proper management standards are being applied at the property
  • the HMO is reasonably suitable, or can be made suitable, for occupation by the number of tenants allowed under the licence with at least the minimum prescribed standards of amenities and facilities. These include the number, type of shared bathrooms, toilets and cooking facilities

Are there conditions on the licence?

All licences granted are subject to conditions which the licence holder must comply with either immediately or within a specified period of time. Certain conditions as detailed in Schedule 4 of the Act are mandatory and must be included in every licence granted. Taking into account these conditions as identified in the Act, we have produced a set of standard conditions which are attached to every licence.

We can also impose any other specific property conditions considered necessary for regulating the management, use and occupation of the premises concerned plus its condition and contents.