Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) Licensing
New Legislation
As of 6 April 2006 all landlords and property managing agents
who let large houses in multiple occupation need to apply for an
HMO licence. From 6 July 2006 landlords and agents who fail
to apply for a licence may face fines of up to £20,000, a criminal
record and potentially rent repayment orders.
In South Lakeland properties of three or more floors, with
five or more tenants belonging to two or more households are
required by law to be licensed.
We will grant you a licence if we are satisfied that:
- The proposed licence holder (which can be the landlord or
managing agent) are ‘fit and proper’ people
- The property and the tenancy are managed appropriately
- The accommodation meets all minimum standards such as
sufficient number of toilets, kitchens and bathrooms for the number
of residents.
Licences for HMOs in South Lakeland cost a minimum of £330;
each additional letting room above five rooms will cost an
additional £25, rising to a maximum cost of £500. If a
licence is applied for before the 7th July 2006, there
will be a 10% discount applied.
To contact us directly email:
housingrenewal@southlakeland.gov.uk or contact the Housing
Renewal Team on 01539 797775.