The City of Westminster, right at the heart of London, is one of the most sought-after places to own and rent property. Home to around 250,000 residents but with a daytime population that swells past a million due to workers, visitors, and tourists, demand for housing is always strong. From historic landmarks like Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey to world-famous shopping in Oxford Street, this borough attracts international attention.

Property investors often see Westminster as a premium location, with average house prices regularly above the London average. According to recent figures, homes here frequently surpass £1 million, making rental yields and careful property management crucial. The local authority overseeing all property licensing is Westminster City Council, and landlords can find details on their official website: Westminster City Council Housing.

Do I need a property or HMO licence in Westminster?

Yes, landlords in Westminster may need a licence depending on the size and type of their property. The borough currently operates both Mandatory HMO Licensing and an Additional HMO Licensing scheme.

There are no Selective Licensing schemes active in Westminster at this time. However, landlords should be aware that licensing requirements are subject to consultation and change. The best way to confirm whether your property needs a licence is to use the free Yuno address checker.

What type of property or HMO licence do I need for Westminster?

• Mandatory HMO Licensing applies across the city. This is required for all HMOs with 5 or more people forming 2 or more households, regardless of location.

• Additional HMO Licensing is also in place and began on 30 August 2021, running until 29 August 2026. This scheme extends licensing to smaller HMOs that don’t meet the mandatory threshold but still fall under multi-occupancy rules.

• Selective Licensing is in operation in Westminster 24th November 2025, applications open 1st October. This scheme is for all privately let property not licensed under a HMO scheme, so even for 1 person and 1 household.

Which properties are exempt from property and HMO licensing in Westminster?

Some properties may be exempt, such as buildings occupied by the owner with up to two lodgers, or certain purpose-built blocks of flats. Exemptions are assessed case by case, so the only reliable way to check if your property qualifies is to use Yuno’s free address checker.

Property and HMO Licence Cost Westminster

• Mandatory HMO Licensing:

Within Westminster, the Mandatory Licensing Scheme is in operation. Mandatory HMO licence cost Westminster – £1580 up to 5 bedrooms + £68 per additional bedroom. Fees are paid in two instalments.

• Additional HMO Licensing:

Within Westminster, an Additional Licensing Scheme is in operation. Additional HMO licence cost Westminster – £1580 up to 5 bedrooms + £68 per additional bedroom. Fees are paid in two instalments.

• Selective Licensing:

Within Westminster, Selective Licensing is coming into force 24th November 2025, applications open 1st October. Selective Licensing cost in Westminster- £995. Fees are paid in two instalments.

What HMO Planning permission do I need in Westminster?

At present, there is no Article 4 HMO planning scheme in operation in Westminster. This means landlords converting a property into an HMO under permitted development rights may not need additional planning consent unless the local planning authority requires it.

HMO Planning Cost Westminster

• Article 4 HMO Planning Permission: No Article 4 HMO scheme is currently in operation in Westminster.

• Sui Generis HMO Planning Applications: As with all areas in England and Wales, the application cost is £462.

Which property or HMO licence do I need for my property in Westminster?

That depends on your property type, size, and occupancy. Licensing schemes (mandatory and additional) apply to most HMOs, while planning consent under Article 4 HMO is currently not enforced in Westminster. To remove uncertainty, landlords, letting agents, and property managers are encouraged to run their property through Yuno’s address checker.

Accuracy of information

This article was correct and up to date at the time of publishing, Yuno offer no guarantees that the information on our website is up to date and accurate at the time of reading though our Yuno tech and expert services are always up to date and correct at all times.

How Yuno helps landlords in Westminster

Navigating Westminster’s property rules can be challenging, but Yuno makes it easier. Whether you’re a landlord, letting agent, property manager, estate agent, or even an assisted living provider, Yuno’s compliance technology keeps you ahead of the curve.

With real-time updates, expert guidance, and automated alerts, you’ll always know when your property needs a licence or planning approval. Yuno’s platform takes the headache out of compliance, saving time and avoiding costly penalties.

Start today with a quick property licence check or book a discovery call with the Yuno team.