Do I need a landlord licence for my property?
Some properties in the UK require a landlord licence, depending on the type of let and your local council’s rules.
When a licence is required
You’ll typically need a licence if:
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You rent out a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) — e.g., multiple unrelated tenants sharing facilities.
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Your property is in an area with a selective licensing scheme.
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You rent in a borough that has introduced additional licensing.
How to check
Licensing rules vary by local authority, so you should:
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Visit your council’s website.
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Search for “landlord licensing” or “HMO licensing”.
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Enter your property postcode to check requirements.
Renting without a required licence can lead to fines, repayment of rent, or restrictions on serving eviction notices.