In this section
HMO Licence Exemptions
Exemption from HMO Licensing regulations
Under the national legislation and regulations there are a number of ‘full’ exemptions to the mandatory HMO licensing scheme.
You can verify if you are exempt from HMO licences by using the following resources:
- Public body exemptions
- Housing Act 2004 (Schedule 14)
- Information on student accommodation exemptions
Temporary exemptions from HMO licensing (TEN)
Under certain circumstances it is possible to apply for a temporary exemption from HMO licencing for a period of three months. This is to allow the Landlord and/or person having control of an HMO, who have unexpectedly found that their property needs a licence a short period of exemption to put the situation right.
When a TEN is in place, you can operate without an HMO licence for 3 months while you're making the changes to remove the property from the requirement to license.
To qualify for a TEN, you must show that you are taking steps to ensure the property will no longer need a licence. We'll ask to see evidence to support your application. This could be:
- Providing supporting documents or other information showing the action being taken
- Completing additional checks, including with other agencies when appropriate
A TEN application can't be made to avoid licensing and an application can be refused or TEN revoked if you:
- Omit any relevant information to support your application
- Make any false statements or misrepresentations.
If a licensable HMO is not licensed or exempted under a Temporary Exemption Notice a section 21 notice cannot be served on the tenants legally. There is no cost for a TEN.
