Properties must be licensed by us if:
- the property is three storeys or more, and
- the property is let to five or more tenants who form more than one household
It is an offence to operate a licensable HMO without a licence. You cannot legally collect any rent on the property and you may be prosecuted with a maximum fine of £20,000. You may also have to repay any rent received over the previous 12-month period.
