Renewing a house in multiple occupation (HMO) licence
If you want to renew a HMO licence it is recommended that you make your application at least two months before expiry. This will allow us time to process your application and deal with any queries before the new licence is due to commence.
If you apply before you existing licence expires you will be able to use a much shortened version of the licence application in the 'Downloads' section entitled 'HMO Renewal App'. This form has been shortened in line with new HMO licensing laws and requires less information about the property. Your existing licence however must not have expired and you will have to make a legal declaration regarding material changes at the property. Notes are enclosed with this licence application which explain this.
If your licence has expired or you cannot make such a declaration then you must fill in the application in the 'Downloads' section entitled 'HMO Licence App'.
On the expiry date of your HMO licence, the property will no longer have a valid licence. You do not have to wait for your current licence to expire before making a new licence application.
It remains your responsibility to ensure that we have got a fully completed application form with all the information requested. If you are using the postal service you are strongly advised to keep a copy of the form and obtain proof of postage and/or delivery. Incomplete forms will not be treated as being a valid application. The council will not accept responsibility for any forms that do not reach us. We will issue an acknowledgement within 10 working days of receiving your completed application. If you do not receive an acknowledgement by this time then you should contact the HMO Licensing Team straight away.
All currently licensed properties where the HMO licence has expired and a new application has not been received will be visited. You should note that if you continue to operate a licensable HMO without a valid licence or without having made application for a new licence, the council may take prosecution proceedings which upon summary conviction could lead to a fine of up to £20,000 being imposed per property. Furthermore, other action can be taken against you such as an application for a rent repayment order by tenants.
If your licence has expired and your property is no longer licensable, please write or email using the 'contact us form' below explaining the reasons why this is the case. If you no longer own the property or control it, please inform the HMO Licensing Team on 0113 247 6248.
You are also reminded of your right to seek independent legal and technical advice.
