Additional HMO licensing ending FAQs

Wednesday 3 May 2023

A designation for an Additional Licensing Scheme can only run for a maximum of five years from the date of commencement. After this time if the Council feels a new scheme should be implemented (based on evidence) then we are required to go through a new consultation process.

Yes, your licence will remain valid until its expiry date.

The end of the designation prevents the Council issuing new licences after 3 May 2023. However, all those issued before that date remain in place.

Yes. Your licence can be varied in certain circumstances. For more information you can email licensingrentedproperty@hastings.gov.uk

Inspections are risk assessed and prioritised based on the answers you have provided in your application, property history and any complaints or information we receive from occupiers or third parties.

Yes, you are required to comply with the conditions specified in your licence.

When requested you are still required to provide satisfactory and in date Fire Alarm Test Certificates and, Emergency Lighting Certificates on a yearly basis and an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) for the communal areas every five years.

No, your licence will be valid and run for the duration specified on your licence

When your current Additional HMO License expires, there is currently no requirement to renew it.

Landlords and those responsible for managing HMO's are still required to comply with relevant legislation affecting the properties that they are renting to tenants.

Examples include: The Management of Houses in Multiple Occupation (England) Regulations 2007, The Housing Act 2004 and a range of other legislation designed to ensure appropriate management and property standards are maintained.

For further advice and information please visit our website or call 01424 451031

Tenants who wish to make a complaint about their housing conditions can still do so. You can report online via My Hastings or call the contact centre on 01424 451100.

Before making a complaint, tenants should report any issues of concern to the landlord in the first instance and give them the opportunity to respond to your concerns.

At the time of writing there is no immediate plans to consult on a further Additional HMO licensing scheme.

The Council will be reviewing and considering its overall Housing Strategy for the future. This includes how it can effectively work with landlords, tenants and managing agents to improve the private rented sector for the benefit of all.