Understanding and navigating the complexities of property compliance is vital for successful property management. For landlords operating rental properties, or Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), obtaining the appropriate licence is not just a legal obligation but also a safeguard against significant fines and legal actions. 

The cost of a property or HMO licence varies based on several factors, including property size, occupancy, location, and specific local council regulations. We have put together the guide below to empower you with a comprehensive overview of Property and HMO licence costs to assist you in streamlining the licensing process.​

What Determines the Cost of an HMO Licence?

There are a variety of factors that influence the cost of obtaining a Property or HMO licence, including:

• Local Council Pricing Structures: Each local authority sets its own fee structure for property and HMO licenses, resulting in variations in cost across different regions. 
• Number of Occupants: Some councils adjust their fees based on the number of occupants or the number of bedrooms in the property. 
• Licence Duration: Licences are issued for periods ranging from one to five years, based on factors such as short licences due to incorrect planning permission or the scheme being due to end after a certain number of years. 
• Property Inspections and Additional Requirements: Some councils include the cost of property inspections in their licensing fees or require additional certifications. This includes certifications for gas and electrical safety checks, which can add to the overall expense.​

With the above in mind, it is essential for landlords to consult their local council’s guidelines to determine the exact costs associated with obtaining an HMO license.​

With the upcoming Renters Rights Bill, the landlord database and prevalence of Property MOT’s, like Yuno’s, licensing and the need to comply with complex legislation are rapidly increasing. 

Yuno is proposing reforms with the support of major letting agents, like Savills, they include challenging the UK’s licensing frameworks and complement the Renters Rights Bill (RRB) by promoting a more centralised and consistent system. Introducing a PRS Database and improving collaboration between local authorities will streamline processes, reduce administrative burdens, and enhance compliance, ensuring a smoother implementation of the RRB across all regions.

Typical Property and HMO Licensing Fees in the UK

While fees vary by region, a general overview of HMO licensing costs includes:

• Small properties or small HMOs: Licensing fees typically range from £500 to £1,000. 
• Larger HMOs: Properties with more occupants may incur higher fees, ranging from £1,000 to £2,500 for 5 beds, and it can scale from there. 
• Renewal Fees: Renewal fees are sometimes lower than the fees for new applications.

Some councils may offer discounts for accredited landlords or not-for-profit organisations. Therefore, it is advisable to enquire about potential reductions when you apply.​

Additional Costs to Consider

Beyond the application fee, landlords should be aware of other possible expenses that are associated with Property and HMO licensing, including:

• Property Upgrades: To meet licensing standards, landlords may need to invest in property improvements, such as installing fire safety measures, enhancing insulation, relocating walls to meet room sizing requirements, or adding necessary facilities.​
• Compliance Reports and Certification: Obtaining necessary certifications, such as gas safety records, electrical installation condition reports, and fire risk assessments, can add to the overall cost. You must maintain these certifications periodically as per the relevant standards, not just for the application.
• Planning Permissions: Landlords may need to secure additional planning permissions to operate an HMO, which can involve further costs.​ In England and Wales, areas with Article 4 Directions, or if you meet the requirement for Sui Generis Planning permission. For Scotland, it’s HMO Planning permission.

It is essential to budget for these additional expenses to avoid unexpected financial burdens during the licensing process, thereby reducing your risk of non-compliance and fines.

What Happens If You Don’t Pay for a Property or HMO Licence?

Failing to obtain the required Property or HMO licence can lead to severe consequences, including:​

• Fines: Landlords can face fines of up to £30,000 for operating an unlicensed HMO, including all licensable properties and short-term lets.​
• Rent Repayment Orders: In England and Wales, tenants may be entitled to reclaim up to 12 months’ worth of rent paid during the period the property was unlicensed.​
• Criminal Prosecution: In some cases, landlords may face criminal charges, resulting in a criminal record and additional financial penalties.​

Timely, detailed and accurate applications for the appropriate licence are essential to prevent these legal and financial issues.​

How Yuno Can Help Reduce Your Property or HMO Licensing Costs

Yuno specialises in simplifying property compliance and licensing, offering services that include

• Identifying the correct licence: It can be confusing even determining which properties require a licence and applying for the correct licence, Yuno takes this process off your hands.
• Checking Licence Requirements: Yuno assists landlords in determining whether their property requires a Property or HMO licence, taking into account factors such as property size, location, and occupancy.​
• Ensuring Full Compliance: Yuno provides tailored guidance to ensure properties meet all regulatory standards, minimising the risk of penalties and additional costs.​
• Handling Applications: By managing the entire application process, Yuno saves landlords time and reduces the likelihood of errors that could lead to application rejections or delays.​
• All certifications and upgrades: Yuno is chosen by many because we take a project management role in the entire process, from start to finish.

With our expertise, landlords can navigate the licensing process more efficiently, potentially reducing overall costs and ensuring compliance with all legal requirements.​