Updated October 2026 · Fraser Bond
Licensing · Small HMOs
Small HMO requirements
3–4sharers
Additionallicensing
Article 4planning
Firesafety
In short: A small HMO is a home let to three or four people from two or more households who share facilities. It doesn't need a mandatory licence (that's for five or more), but many London boroughs require one under additional licensing. Changing a family home (C3) to a small HMO (C4) is normally permitted development, except where an Article 4 direction removes that right. HMO management regulations apply regardless, covering fire safety, maintenance and waste, and minimum room sizes apply in licensed HMOs.
| Requirement | Small HMO |
|---|---|
| Mandatory licence | No (5+ people) |
| Additional licence | Often, depending on borough |
| Planning | Permitted development unless Article 4 |
| Fire safety | Alarms, fire doors as assessed |
| Management regulations | Yes |
At a glance
Frequently asked questions
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Is a 3-bed shared house an HMO?
Yes, if three or more unrelated sharers.
Can Fraser Bond manage HMOs?
Yes.
