Barking and Dagenham HMO licensing guide

HMO licence in Barking and Dagenham — do I need one?

Barking and Dagenham has 1 licensing scheme on our register, on top of the national mandatory HMO rules. This page summarises the active and upcoming schemes, links to the council source, and explains what you need to do as a landlord.

Active and upcoming schemes

Sourced from Barking and Dagenham announcements and tracked by our weekly scanner. Always verify directly with the council before applying.

SelectiveEffective: 6 April 2025 (5 years)

Barking & Dagenham Borough-Wide Selective Licensing

Borough-wide selective licensing — every landlord renting to a single household or two unrelated sharers needs a licence. Fee £950 (up to £450 discount for Silver/Gold compliance awards). 5-year scheme.

Read the original announcement →

National mandatory HMO rules (apply everywhere in England)

Regardless of any Barking and Dagenham-specific scheme, you also need to comply with the national mandatory HMO licensing rules under the Housing Act 2004:

  • 5 or more occupants from 2 or more separate households sharing a kitchen, bathroom or toilet → mandatory HMO licence required.
  • A household = single person, couple, or family unit. Unrelated sharers each count as a separate household.
  • Unlicensed HMOs face civil penalties up to £30,000, Rent Repayment Orders (up to 12 months' rent).
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Disclaimer: This page is an indicative guide based on publicly announced Barking and Dagenham schemes and the Housing Act 2004 standard test. It is not legal advice. Council schemes change frequently — always confirm the current position with London Borough of Barking and Dagenham before letting or applying for a licence.