What are Selective and Additional Licensing in HMOs?

Selective and additional licensing in the context of House in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) refers to specific requirements and regulations imposed by local authorities for certain types of HMO properties. HMOs are properties where three or more individuals from different households share common facilities such as bathrooms or kitchens.

Selective licensing: Selective licensing is a scheme implemented by local authorities to regulate specific areas or types of HMO properties. It requires landlords to obtain a license from the local council in order to operate an HMO within the designated area. This licensing is not mandatory for all HMOs but only applies to properties within the specified area. The purpose of selective licensing is to improve housing standards and address issues such as anti-social behavior or poor management in areas with a high concentration of HMOs.

Additional licensing: Additional licensing, also known as mandatory licensing, goes beyond selective licensing and applies to all HMOs within a local authority’s jurisdiction. This means that regardless of the area, any HMO meeting the criteria specified by the local authority must be licensed. The criteria for additional licensing can vary from one authority to another, but it generally includes properties with a certain number of occupants or properties that meet specific HMO definitions.

Both selective and additional licensing aim to ensure that HMO properties meet certain standards in terms of safety, management, and living conditions. The specific requirements and conditions for obtaining licenses may vary between different local authorities, so it’s essential for landlords and property owners to familiarize themselves with the regulations set forth by their respective councils. Failure to obtain the required licenses or comply with the regulations can result in penalties, fines, or even the prohibition of operating an HMO.