Brent HMO licensing guide

HMO licence in Brent — do I need one?

Brent 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 Brent announcements and tracked by our weekly scanner. Always verify directly with the council before applying.

Additional HMOEffective: February 2026

Brent Additional HMO Licensing Scheme 2026

Borough-wide additional HMO licensing for properties occupied by 3-4 people from 2+ households, in force from 2 February 2026. Fee £840.

Read the original announcement →

National mandatory HMO rules (apply everywhere in England)

Regardless of any Brent-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 Brent schemes and the Housing Act 2004 standard test. It is not legal advice. Council schemes change frequently — always confirm the current position with Brent Council before letting or applying for a licence.