Mandatory HMO licensing came into force on 6 April 2006.  There was a 'grace period' of three months during which landlords who have yet to apply would not be penalised.  HMO landlords were encouraged to come forward during that period to avoid the penalties, which came in from 6 July 2006. The reality is that different local authorities are approaching registration at different speeds and at different levels of competence. Whilst there is evidence of enforcement a landlord or agent acting with reasonable speed is not, at present, likely to be penalised.

If your local housing authority decides to set up an additional licensing scheme they will have to publicise the details including the date from when it starts.  From that date you will have to apply for a licence if your property meets the criteria of the scheme and you will face penalties if you do not apply.

The length of the application process will vary depending on a number of factors, such as the circumstances of each property or the total number of applications that the local housing authority has to get through. Provided that a landlord has submitted a valid application, the HMO can continue to operate legally until the local housing authority reaches its decision and any appeals against that decision are complete.  However, the property may need to be inspected in order for the local housing authority to be satisfied that it is suitable for licensing.