The most frequently encountered type of HMO licence is known as the 'mandatory licence'. The criteria for determining which properties require this mandatory HMO licence vary depending on the location of your rental property within the UK.

England

In England, a mandatory HMO licence is essential for all HMOs that house five or more tenants from two or more different households. The duration and the expense of the licence vary based on your property's location. However, as a basic guideline, any HMO in England accommodating five or more residents is subject to the mandatory licensing regulation.

Wales

In Wales, the rules governing which properties require a mandatory HMO licence are slightly different. To fall under the mandatory licence rules, a property must have both:

• Three or more storeys, and;
• Five or more occupants forming more than one household.

The Welsh government has produced a full guide to HMOs in Wales with fuller details of all licensing rules.

Northern Ireland

In Northern Ireland, there is no distinction made between mandatory and additional licences for HMOs. All houses in multiple occupation (with three or more tenants from two or more households) must be licensed by their local council.

Scotland

In Scotland, there is similarly no distinction made between mandatory and additional licences, and all HMOs must be licensed, with the landlord’s details added to the Scottish Landlord Register.