The London Borough of Harrow enforces strict HMO (House in Multiple Occupation) licensing schemes to regulate shared rental properties, protect tenants, and maintain high housing standards.
If you are a landlord renting out a shared property in Harrow, it is essential to understand the licensing requirements to avoid fines, legal issues, and enforcement action. Fraser Bond provides expert landlord support to ensure compliance and help secure HMO licences hassle-free.
Harrow Council enforces two main licensing schemes for HMOs:
A Mandatory HMO Licence is required if your property meets the following criteria:
✔ It is rented to five or more people forming two or more households.
✔ Tenants share facilities, such as a kitchen, bathroom, or toilet.
✔ The property meets the HMO definition under national housing laws.
Licence Duration: Up to five years.
Licence Fee: Starting from £1,400 per property.
Harrow’s Additional Licensing Scheme expands HMO regulations to smaller shared properties that fall outside the mandatory scheme. You must apply for an Additional Licence if:
✔ Your property is rented to three or more people forming two or more households.
✔ Tenants share facilities, such as a kitchen, bathroom, or toilet.
✔ The building is a converted property that does not meet modern safety regulations.
Licence Duration: Up to five years.
Licence Fee: £1,400 per property, with possible discounts for accredited landlords.
Harrow Council introduced HMO licensing to:
