The district wide scheme requires landlords with houses, converted flats or purpose-built flats (including student accommodation) occupied by three or more persons living as two or more households to obtain an HMO licence in order to continue to operate.

In advance of the new rules, many HMO landlords who are known to the Council have already received a licensing pack. Landlords who have not received a pack are advised to contact the Private Sector Housing team to register their details. (Tel 01926 456418 or email addhmo.admin@warwickdc.gov.uk).  

Since 1 January, the Council has been inviting landlords to make their HMO licence applications with ‘early bird’ discounted fees available to those who submit them in full by 14 March. 

Any Landlord whose HMO has been in continuous operation from 18 January, should ensure that they have applied for a licence by 18 July. Enforcement action will be taken by the Private Sector Housing team in the autumn for landlords who have failed to obtain a licence.

Landlords who do not wish to continue to operate their properties as HMOs can apply for Temporary Exemption Notices if they are able to bring the HMO use to an end within an agreed timeframe. Those landlords are advised to discuss individual cases with the Private Sector Housing team.

Councillor Paul Wightman, Portfolio Holder for Housing commented:

“We are encouraged by the number of new applications for an HMO licence that have already been received. Landlords needing any support or guidance on the new rules and clarity on their responsibilities should contact the Private Sector Housing team who are here to help.”

Further information on the new HMO scheme.