Landlords urged to consult local associations on changes to HMO Licensing

Wednesday 15th February 2012

Property owners who want to change their property from a dwelling house (class C3) to a House in Multiple Occupation (a small HMO – Class C4) will now require planning permission under a piece of legislation named article 4.

The legislation – with a view to improving tenants housing conditions and community relations – has been criticised by some landlords. Previously, only HMO’s with six or more unrelated tenants required a licence though this has now been reduced to three.

The legislation is however; optional with some local authority’s expected to implement it while others opt out. It is likely to be popular in areas highly populated by students, with Brighton & Hove Council already considering implementation plans. Research suggests 800 properties in Brighton will qualify for the required license with the Hanover and Elm Grove areas amongst those most affected.

Landlords who do require a licence will be required to pay around £400-£600 once their planning application is approved. Although this may seem high, and many will be opposed to it, landlords are warned not to ignore their legal requirements. Jamie Simpson on iInsure365 warns that “Failure to have the right licence can carry a heavy fine of upto £20,000, so it is vital that you consult your local authority on planning regulations”.

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