Additional licensing
Council licensing of smaller HMOs in designated areas.
3 min read · Updated 2 August 2026
Overview
Additional licensing lets a council require a licence for smaller HMOs — those below the five-person mandatory threshold — in a designated area. A typical designation covers any HMO of three or four people. The rules, conditions and penalties mirror mandatory HMO licensing.
Practical guidance
- A property can be in both a selective and an additional licensing area — check which applies.
- Licensing and HMO status are separate from planning use class.
This wiki entry is general information for UK landlords and letting agents, not legal advice. Rules differ across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland — check your local requirements or take advice before acting.