Licences for HMOs will last for a maximum of 5 years and will not be transferable.
A person controlling or managing a HMO must have a licence for each property.
It is an offence not to have a licence when a licence is required. This is punishable by a fine of up to £20,000.
We have the power to selectively licence all landlords in areas of low demand or in areas where there are anti-social behaviour problems.
In some areas unprofessional landlords have purchased properties at low prices and show poor management, which can cause areas to become de-stabilised. Selective licensing should allow constructive engagement between landlords and local authorities.
More information on HMO's