As a landlord, one key question you might face is whether you need a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) licence for your property. This becomes particularly relevant when two or more tenants are living together.
What is an HMO?
An HMO is a property that meets the following criteria:
- It has at least three tenants from different households.
- The tenants share kitchen, bathroom, and toilet facilities.
A “household” is defined as:
- An individual living alone
- Family members living together
- Couples who are married, cohabiting, or in same-sex relationships
When Do You Require an HMO Licence?
There are two types of HMOs: mandatory and additional.
- Mandatory HMOs require a licence if there are five or more tenants.
- Additional HMOs may or may not require a licence depending on local regulations, the number of storeys, and the occupants.
Following HMO regulations is crucial for ensuring tenant safety. Non-compliance can result in fines, legal action, or imprisonment.
Do I Need an HMO Licence for Two Tenants?
If your property houses only two tenants, you do not need a mandatory HMO licence, as the threshold of three tenants has not been met. However, it’s important to check if any additional local regulations classify your property as an HMO.
Exemptions may apply, such as when tenants are family members or if the property is a purpose-built block of flats.
We have gathered information from London boroughs, but it’s essential to verify with your local council to see if your property requires a licence.
| Borough | Number of Tenants |
|---|---|
| Barnet | 3 |
| Bexley | 5 |
| Brent | 3 |
| Bromley | 5 |
| Camden | 3 |
| Croydon | 3 |
| Ealing | 3 |
| Enfield | 3 |
| Greenwich | 3 |
| Hackney | 3 |
| Hammersmith and Fulham | 3 |
| Haringey | 3 |
| Harrow | 3 |
| Havering | 3 |
| Hillingdon | 5 |
| Hounslow | 3 |
| Islington | 3 |
| Kensington and Chelsea | 3 |
| Kingston upon Thames | 3 |
| Lambeth | 3 |
| Lewisham | 3 |
| Merton | 3 |
| Newham | 3 |
| Redbridge | 3 |
| Richmond upon Thames | 5 |
| Southwark | 5 |
| Sutton | 5 |
| Tower Hamlets | 3 |
| Waltham Forest | 3 |
| Wandsworth | 5 |
| Westminster | 3 |
For more information on the HMO licence for three tenants, check out our blog post here. To learn about the HMO licence for four tenants, visit our blog post here.
At BRH Property Management, we specialise in managing HMO properties and navigating the complexities of HMO regulations. We can help you determine your licensing needs and ensure full compliance.
Visit our website to learn more about our HMO property management services.
It depends on your local council’s requirements. While you won’t need a mandatory HMO licence for two tenants, you may still require a local authority licence.
In most cases, a mandatory HMO licence is required for a single property with 5 or more tenants.
Licensing requirements can vary significantly between London boroughs. Some require licensing for properties with 3 or more tenants, while others only require it for 5 or more tenants. It’s essential to check with your specific local council for accurate information.
Yes, some exemptions may apply, such as:
- If the property is occupied by family members
- If it’s a purpose-built block of flats
Failure to comply with HMO regulations can result in:
- Fines
- Legal action
- Potential imprisonment
It’s best to check with your local council for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding HMO licensing requirements in your specific area.ontent
Property management companies with experience in HMO properties, such as BRH Property Management, can assist with navigating complex regulations, obtaining licenses, and ensuring compliance with all requirements. Contact us if you’d like to chat about your property.