House In Multiple Occupancy (HMO) Licence and Advice

View more about Houses in Multiple Occupation

Opens in a new windowDo I need this licence?
All properties of three or more storeys (including attics and basements), let to five or more people, who form two or more households, are subject to mandatory licensing.

What are the conditions of the licence?

• The property is suitable for occupation by the number of people on the application
• The property has adequate facilities for the number of people on the application
• That the proposed licence holder is a fit and proper person
• The property management is satisfactory

What conditions may be attached to the licence?

• Provision of a gas safety certificate if not provided with the application
• Evidence that the appliances and furnishings are in a safe condition
• Evidence that the property has an adequate means of escape from fire
• Requirement for additional amenities

What information/evidence will I need to provide?

• A plan of the property
• A landlord's gas safety certificate
• Relevant planning and building control documents
• A current inspection report from a competent electrician
• BS5839 test reports relating to the fire detection system (if applicable)
• BS5266 test reports relating to the fire detection system (if applicable)

How do I apply?
Complete an application form below:

• Application to licence a house in multiple occupation Opens in a new window
• Application to renew a licence for a house in multiple occupancy Opens in a new window
• Application to change a licence for a house in multiple occupancy Opens in a new window

Further information is available from the National Standards for HMOs link to the right of this page.

Are there inspections / assessments?
Yes. An inspection to verify the application will be carried out prior to the issue of the licence.

If I don't hear from you for 56 days, can I assume it's been granted ("tacit consent")?

No. It is in the public interest that we must process your application before it can be granted. If you have not heard from us within a reasonable period, please contact us using the details on the right of the page.

If I'm turned down, how do I appeal?
For Licence Holders or Applicants:

• Please contact Surrey Heath Borough Council in the first instance.
• You may appeal to a residential property tribunal.
• Any appeal must be made within 28 days of the decision being made.

How long does the licence last, and what's the renewal procedure?
The licence lasts for 5 years.

You will have to apply for a new licence after 5 years.

How do I tell you about changes of circumstance?
You should tell us about:

• Change of landlord's contact details
• Change of insurer
• Change in number of occupants

If there is a change of ownership you will have to apply for a new licence.

Please contact us using the details on the right of the page.

Consumer Complaint
If a licence is granted and you wish to appeal against it being granted you may do so to a residential property tribunal within 28 days of the decision being made.

If you have concerns about a house in multiple occupation, please contact us using the details on the right of the page.

Where can I go for further information?

• Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) Licensing Opens in a new window- Communities and Local Government
• British Property Federation (BPF) Opens in a new window
• National Federation of Property Professionals Opens in a new window