Landlord guide: Dacorum Council
What landlords and letting agents need to know about property licensing, safety certificates and compliance in Dacorum Council.
Overview
If you let a property in the Dacorum Council area, the first job is to confirm which licensing regime the exact address falls under. Mandatory HMO licensing applies to any property let to five or more people forming two or more households who share a kitchen, bathroom or toilet. There are no additional or selective licensing schemes currently in force. The Renters' Rights Act 2025 (main provisions commence 2026) replaces fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies with periodic assured tenancies, ends section 21 no-fault evictions and introduces a national landlord database and ombudsman. Whatever the licensing position, keep the same evidence pack for every Dacorum Council tenancy: a current gas safety record where there is gas, an EICR no more than five years old, a valid EPC, working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, deposit protection and prescribed information, and the required prescribed documents served before the tenancy starts.
Licensing in Dacorum Council
Mandatory HMO licensing: Mandatory HMO licensing applies to any property let to five or more people forming two or more households who share a kitchen, bathroom or toilet.. Additional licensing: Dacorum Council does not currently operate an additional licensing scheme for smaller HMOs.. Selective licensing: Dacorum Council does not currently operate a selective licensing scheme..
Fees and applications
Licensing fees are available upon application or inquiry with the council. Apply or check a designation at https://www.dacorum.gov.uk/home/planning-development/private-sector-housing/houses-in-multiple-occupation.
Safety and compliance
Keep an annual gas safety record where there is gas, a valid EICR every five years, a current EPC, working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and evidence that you served the required statutory documents at the start of the tenancy.
Renters' Rights Act 2025
Assured shorthold tenancies are replaced by periodic assured tenancies, section 21 is abolished and the possession grounds change. Landlords in Dacorum Council should review notices, rent increase procedure and record keeping ahead of the main provisions commencing in 2026.
Councils covered
Local rules change frequently. Always confirm licensing designations and fees with the council for the exact address before letting. This guide is general information, not legal advice.