You must wait for written permission before starting. We will not refuse permission without good reason.
If you're a council tenant, you have the right to request permission to run a business from your council home - but only with written permission. This ensures changes are safe, legal, and appropriate for the property.
Quick summary
| Who's it for | Council tenants in Leeds |
|---|---|
| Why we do it | To ensure changes are safe, legal, and don’t affect other tenants |
| When it happens | Before you start running a business or making any changes |
| What you need to do | Request written permission and follow all regulations |
| How long it takes | You’ll be contacted within 28 working days of your request |
Considerations
Things that you need to take into account when running a business from your home include:
- noise, such as loud tools
- smells, such as a business involving food preparation
- large numbers of people, for example if customers come to your property to buy products
- keeping dangerous substances, such as paint thinners
- how you plan to dispose of any extra waste or rubbish which is produced as a result
Before setting up your business
- You must get written permission before running your business or making any changes.
- Depending on the nature of your business, you must demonstrate that you fulfil all legal and regulatory responsibilities. If you are unsure what these are, you should contact the relevant organisation.
How to request permission
Online
You can request permission through the tenant portal.
Complete a form
You can also request permission by completing the 'request for permission' form.
If you can't download and print you can get a form by:
- emailing housingenquiries@leeds.gov.uk
- visiting your local community hub or housing office
Once completed you can email it to us or take it to local community hub or housing office.
During the decision process
We will review your request and may:
- ask for more information
- arrange a property inspection
We will:
- contact you within 28 working days with a decision or to arrange a visit
- provide any relevant advice
After permission is granted
If you are given permission to run a business from your home, we will:
- monitor compliance if we have given conditional permission
- investigate and contact you about any complaints from other residents
Extra support
We can provide additional support if you:
- need help completing the form
- need the information in another format or language
- have any questions
For more information contact your local housing team.
