Granting a licence
Having received a complete HMO licence application, the council must issue a licence if it is satisfied that:
The proposed licence holder is a fit and proper person (see below)
The proposed licence holder is the most appropriate person to hold the licence
The proposed manager (if there is one) is a fit and proper person, and that the manager has control of the property (see below), or they are an employee of the person having control of the property
The proposed management arrangements for the property are satisfactory
The property is reasonably suitable for occupation
A licence will normally last for up to five years, however, if the council has specific concerns in relation to the HMO itself or the management of it, they may decide to issue a licence for a reduced period, for example two years.
Fit and proper person
In determining if a person is fit and proper for the purposes of the Act, the council must take into account:
Any previous convictions relating to violence, sexual offences, drugs and fraud
Contravention of any law relating to housing or landlord and tenant matters
Whether the person has been found guilty of unlawful discrimination
Whether the person has contravened any Approved Code of Practice
It is, however, a matter for the council to determine the relevance of these considerations (or other matters it considers to be relevant) in deciding whether or not a person is fit and proper.
Licence conditions
Every licence must contain certain conditions which are listed below. The council also has the discretion to add additional conditions to a licence.
Mandatory condition requiring the licence holder to provide annual gas safety certificates (if gas is supplied to the property)
Mandatory condition requiring the licence holder to ensure electrical appliances and furnishings provided are in a safe condition
Mandatory condition requiring the licence holder to ensure that smoke alarms are installed in the property, and that they are maintained in proper working order
Mandatory condition requiring the licence holder to supply the occupiers of the property with a written statement of the terms on which they occupy it
The licence will also specify the maximum number of people who can occupy the HMO.
The licence holder or manager of an HMO who allows it to be occupied by more persons than are permitted under the licence commits an offence and can be fined up to £20,000.
Furthermore, if that person otherwise breaches or fails to comply with a condition of the licence he will also commit an offence and may be fined up to a maximum of £5,000.
Refusal of licence application
The council can refuse to grant a licence if they are satisfied that the HMO does not meet the appropriate standards, and/or the landlord or manager is not a fit and proper person.
Contact us
HMO licensing
Private Sector Housing Unit
London Borough of Hounslow
Civic Centre
Lampton Road
Hounslow
TW3 4DN
Tel: 020 8583 3870
Fax: 020 8583 3990
E-mail: hmo@hounslow.gov.uk