Landlord licensing in Leeds City Council

Licensing at a glance

HMO licensing

Mandatory HMO licensing applies to Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) that are occupied by five or more people forming two or more separate households and share amenities like kitchens or bathrooms. Leeds City Council also has additional HMO licensing schemes which cover smaller HMOs.

Additional licensing

Yes, Leeds City Council operates an additional licensing scheme for smaller HMOs. This scheme covers all Wards within the local authority area and applies to HMOs occupied by three or four people forming two or more separate households.

Selective licensing

Yes, Leeds City Council has implemented selective licensing schemes in areas with high proportions of private rented housing. These include Beeston and Harehills, and additional areas are under consideration. Landlords letting properties in these designated areas must obtain a licence regardless of whether they are HMOs.

Typical fees

Refer to the Leeds City Council licensing website for current fees, as these can vary.

Towns covered

Leeds, Headingley, Hyde Park, Morley

What this means for you

If you let a property in Leeds City Council, you must check whether it falls within a licensing designation before advertising. Operating a licensable property without a licence can lead to civil penalties up to £30,000 per offence, and tenants may seek a Rent Repayment Order for up to 12 months' rent. Ensure all properties meet the Private Rented Sector Decent Homes Standard, which is mandatory from 2026. Keep gas, electrical, and EPC certificates current and provide them to tenants as required. Landlords must also adhere to the requirements of the Renters' Rights Act 2025, including the ban on 'no-fault' evictions and ensuring properties are safe and well-maintained. Always store the licence with your compliance records.

Official links

• Licensing pages
• Council website