The Housing Act 2004 introduces the licensing of Houses in Multiple Occupation from 6 April 2006.
Local Authorities are required to license larger, higher risk HMOs, which initially will comprise those of three stories and above occupied by at least five persons who constitute more than one household.
This introductory guide for landlords is also available as a PDF format leaflet to download below.
It is an offence if the landlord or person in control of the property:
A fine of up to £20,000 may be imposed. In addition, breaking any of the licence conditions can result in fines of up to £5,000.
Rent Repayment Orders
A tenant living in a property that should have been licensed, but was not, can apply to the Residential Property Tribunal to claim back any rent they have paid during the unlicensed period (up to a limit of 12 months).
You can contact the Residential Property Tribunal at:
Southern Residential Property Tribunal
1st Floor
1 Market Avenue
Chichester
PO19 1JU
Phone: 0845 100 2617 or 01243 779394
Fax: 01243 779389
The Residential Property Tribunal general enquiry line is 0845 600 3178, or go to their website.
Councils may also reclaim any housing benefit that has been paid during the time the property has been without a licence.
No property licence, no rent. Apply for your licence now.
