Landlord guide for Portsmouth
Portsmouth is a dense island city with strong student, naval and commuter demand, and a high proportion of shared houses.
Licensing and local rules
- Mandatory HMO licensing applies to shared houses with five or more occupiers.
- Additional licensing has covered smaller HMOs in central areas.
- Article 4 directions restrict new small HMO conversions in much of the city.
What the local market looks like
- Limited land keeps supply tight, so well presented properties let quickly.
- Shared houses are a large part of the market, which raises the compliance workload.
- Parking and refuse arrangements are common tenant complaints, so set expectations in writing.
Your council
Licensing designations change, so always confirm the position for the exact address with the local authority before you let.