From 1st January 2017 it is legal requirement for most houses in multiple occupation (HMO) to be licenced.
The new additional licensing scheme will apply to all HMOs that are two storeys or more and occupied by four or more persons, but not covered by the existing mandatory scheme. The scheme will also apply to all HMOs in building with mixed commercial and residential use, plus certain so-called section 257 HMOs, which are buildings converted into self-contained flats.
From 1st January 2017 it is also a legal requirement for all other privately rented homes (not just HMOs) in the five wards of Acton Central, East Acton, South Acton, Southall Green and Southall Broadway to be licensed.
How much do licences cost?
Additional licencing
The licensing fee for each HMO is £1,100 plus £30 for each habitable room. This licence lasts for up to five years.
Selective licencing
The licensing fee for all other privately rented homes (not just HMO) in the five wards of Acton Central, East Acton, South Acton, Southall Green and Southall Broadway is £500. This licence lasts for up to five years.
Failure to obtain a licence may result in prosecution and an unlimited fine.
Applicants who sign up between 1 October and 31 December 2016 may be eligible to receive a 25% “early bird” discount.
Those who are already members of a recognised landlord’s accreditation scheme may also qualify for a further discount of £75. Landlords will also be eligible for discount if their letting agent is member of regulated body.
If you have any queries concerning the matters raised please contact Director, Wiesia Jekaterynczuk on 0208 993 0056 or by e-mail on wiesia@jwandsons.co.uk
