ADDITIONAL LICENSING refers to a policy enacted by a council that extends licensing requirements to HMOs of sizes that do not fall under the mandatory licensing criteria. This means that in addition to the large HMOs already subject to mandatory licensing, smaller HMOs might also need to be licensed under this policy.

For instance, while the mandatory licensing typically applies to HMOs with five or more occupants, a council can implement an additional licensing scheme that requires all HMOs, regardless of their size, to obtain a license. This could include HMOs with fewer than five occupants or those that do not meet the specific criteria for mandatory licensing.

The purpose of additional licensing is often to address issues such as poor management or low standards of accommodation in smaller HMOs, which might not be covered by mandatory licensing rules. It allows councils to have greater control and oversight over a wider range of rental properties, ensuring better living conditions and compliance with safety standards.

Each council can set its own criteria for additional licensing, meaning the requirements can vary significantly from one area to another. It's important for landlords and property managers to check the specific