Tower Hamlets Additional Licensing for HMOs: A Landlord’s Guide
The London Borough of Tower Hamlets has implemented a borough-wide Additional Licensing Scheme to regulate Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), ensuring tenant safety and housing standards. Effective from April 1, 2024, this expanded scheme replaces the previous area-specific requirements and applies to all HMOs across the borough.
This guide provides landlords with essential information about the new licensing requirements and how to comply.
What is Additional Licensing?
Additional Licensing is a discretionary scheme that applies to HMOs not covered by mandatory licensing. It aims to address safety concerns, overcrowding, and poor property management in smaller HMOs or specific property types.
In Tower Hamlets, the scheme covers:
- Properties rented to three or more people forming two or more households who share facilities like kitchens or bathrooms.
- Section 257 HMOs: Buildings converted into self-contained flats that do not meet current building regulations and where more than one-third of flats are rented out.
Key Dates and Scope
- Implementation Date: April 1, 2024
- End Date: March 31, 2029
- Coverage: All privately rented HMOs throughout Tower Hamlets, regardless of size or location.
This new designation expands the previous scheme, which only applied to certain areas, ensuring all HMOs in the borough are now regulated.
Licensing Requirements
To operate an HMO in Tower Hamlets, landlords must:
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Apply for a License
- Submit an online application through the council’s HMO Licensing Portal.
- Include details about the property, its occupants, and management arrangements.
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Pay Licensing Fees
- Licensing fees vary depending on the property type and size. Discounts may be available for accredited landlords or early applications.
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Meet Housing Standards
- Room Sizes: Bedrooms for one adult must be at least 6.51 square meters, and for two adults, 10.22 square meters.
- Fire Safety: Install smoke alarms, fire doors, and maintain clear escape routes.
- Electrical Safety: Provide an up-to-date Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR).
- Gas Safety: Ensure an annual gas safety certificate is available.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Landlords operating unlicensed HMOs or failing to comply with licensing conditions face significant consequences:
- Fines of up to £30,000 per offense.
- Rent Repayment Orders, requiring landlords to return up to 12 months’ rent to tenants.
- Restrictions on serving Section 21 eviction notices.
Benefits of Additional Licensing
For Tenants:
- Improved safety and living conditions.
- Protection against overcrowding and poorly managed properties.
For Landlords:
- Enhanced reputation as a responsible landlord.
- Reduced risks of legal action and tenant disputes.
How Fraser Bond Can Help
Navigating the expanded Additional Licensing Scheme in Tower Hamlets can be complex. Fraser Bond offers expert services to assist landlords with:
- Application Support: Ensure your licensing application is accurate and complete.
- Property Compliance Checks: Conduct audits to identify and address safety or management issues.
- Ongoing Management Services: Handle property maintenance, tenant relations, and renewals to maintain compliance.
Stay ahead of the new regulations and protect your rental property investments. Contact Fraser Bond today for tailored advice and professional support.
