Apply for an HMO licence

If your property is rented out to multiple people who share facilities, it’s likely a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO).  

To rent out an HMO, you need a license. Each HMO needs its own license to meet safety rules and attract tenants. 

What is an HMO license

An HMO license ensures your property is well-managed and meets safety standards. We might add specific rules to your license to keep homes in good condition. You can discuss or challenge these rules during the application process. 

Who can apply 

The person applying for the license and the manager must pass a 'fit and proper person' check. This means we must take into account if they have: 

• Any past crimes like violence, sexual offences, drugs, fraud 
• Broken any housing or landlord laws or tenant issues 
• Managed HMOs that didn't follow the rules 

For more details on what is considered, please see Section 66 of the Housing Act 2004.

You can also check our Fit and Proper Persons page.

Fees 

HMO licenses last up to 5 years and have two payment parts: 

• Part 1: Processing the application (non-refundable) 
• Part 2: Managing the license (paid after approval) 

You can pay all at once or in two parts. Your application isn’t complete until all fees are paid. 

Applications 

License applications are made via the Government's website.

When you apply, you will need to submit the following: 

• gas safety certificate (if applicable) 
• electrical installation condition report 
• layout plans which show the following for each floor 
• room dimensions (see Devon-wide amenity standards) 
• room amenities (e.g. cooker) 
• smoke detectors 
• heat detectors 
• escape windows 
• door positions 
• PAT test (on any goods supplied) 
• fire alarm and emergency lighting certificate(s) 

What happens next 

• If your application is missing documents, we’ll let you know. You have 8 weeks to send them. 
• Running an unlicensed HMO is illegal and could lead to fines or prosecution. 

Other Important Information 

Refused Applications: If your license is refused, we’ll refund any unused fees. 

Planning Permission: HMO licensing is separate from planning permission. Make sure you have the right permissions for your property. 

To check what permissions you currently have contact Planning 

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