A council is warning HMO landlords to apply for a licence ahead of a new regime starting this week.

From September 1 Portsmouth council is introducing additional licensing for smaller HMOs. 

Landlords can submit applications from September 1 and will have until December 1 to do so.

These changes mean there’s now three types of licences for HMO landlords to apply for. They depend on how many people live in the HMO, or if the property has been converted into flats.

These are additional licensing for HMOs of three or four people; mandatory licensing for HMOs of five or more people; and 257 licenses for properties that’ve been converted into flats, do not comply with 1991 building regulations, and which two thirds or more of the flats in the property are rented out. 

Some buildings will require a 257 licence in addition to either an additional or mandatory licence.

A council statement claims the scheme is set up to encourage best practice from landlords, with longer licencing terms and cheaper fees available for those that comply with certain conditions.

A spokesperson says: “We know we have many good landlords in Portsmouth, and understand the importance of shared homes in the city.

“Last year we consulted with the public on these licence changes and have taken the feedback into account.

“We have an excellent team in place who will work with landlords to provide the information needed. We also understand that compliant, safe and decent accommodation is a win for everyone – landlord and tenant alike.”