Landlord licensing in Sheffield City Council

Licensing at a glance

HMO licensing

Mandatory licensing applies to all Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) that are occupied by five or more people forming two or more separate households, regardless of the number of storeys. These properties always require a licence.

Additional licensing

Yes - an Additional Licensing scheme applies to all HMOs not covered by mandatory licensing across the entire Sheffield City Council area, as of 1st November 2023. This includes smaller HMOs occupied by three or four people.

Selective licensing

Yes - a Selective Licensing scheme is in operation in specific areas including Abbeydale, Broomhall, Burngreave, Firth Park, and Page Hall. Landlords letting properties within these designated areas must obtain a licence, regardless of whether the property is an HMO.

Typical fees

From around £1,000 for 5 years

Towns covered

Sheffield, Broomhill, Crookes, Page Hall

What this means for you

If you let a property in Sheffield City Council, check whether it falls inside a licensing designation before you advertise it. Licensable properties let without a licence can lead to a civil penalty of up to £30,000 per offence and a rent repayment order for up to 12 months of rent. Ensure all properties meet the Decent Homes Standard, and the property's Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating is C or above from 2026. Confirm the licensing status by postcode on the council website, keep gas, electrical and EPC certificates current, and store the licence with your compliance records.

Official links

• Licensing pages
• Council website