How to apply for an HMO licence in England
By Patrick Roper · Last reviewed 2026-06-27
To apply for an HMO licence in England, first confirm which scheme your council runs (mandatory, additional or selective), then complete that council's application form, supply the required documents and a floor plan, pay the council fee, and submit. Most councils process applications in a number of weeks. Get HMO Licence can complete and submit the whole application for you.
- First step
- Confirm your council's scheme (mandatory, additional or selective) · source: GOV.UK
- You apply to
- Your local council — each runs its own form and fee · source: GOV.UK
- Typical documents
- Floor plan, gas/electrical safety certificates, EPC, proof of identity · source: GOV.UK
- Penalty for not licensing
- Civil penalty up to £40,000 and a Rent Repayment Order · source: Renters' Rights Act 2025
Applying for an HMO licence is done through your local council, and every council runs its own scheme, form and fee. The steps below are the same across England, but the detail differs by council.
If you would rather not handle the paperwork, Get HMO Licence completes and submits the entire application to your council for you, with the council fee paid directly to the council.
- Check whether you need a licence. Use the council checker to confirm whether your property needs a licence under mandatory, additional or selective licensing in your council's area.
- Find your council's scheme and fee. Each council runs its own HMO licensing scheme, application form and fee. Confirm the fee and the scheme type from the council's own published page.
- Gather the required documents. Most councils ask for a floor plan, gas and electrical safety certificates, an EPC, and proof of identity. Requirements vary by council.
- Complete and submit the application. Complete the council's application form, attach the documents, pay the council fee and submit. Get HMO Licence can complete and submit the whole application for you.
Frequently asked questions
Who do I apply to for an HMO licence?
You apply to your local council. Each council runs its own HMO licensing scheme, application form and fee.
What documents do I need to apply for an HMO licence?
Most councils require a floor plan, gas and electrical safety certificates, an EPC and proof of identity, though exact requirements vary by council.
What happens if I rent an unlicensed HMO?
Operating a licensable HMO without a licence can lead to a civil penalty of up to £40,000 and a Rent Repayment Order under the Renters' Rights Act 2025.