Bromley HMO licensing guide

Bromley HMO licence — do you need one?

Bromley does not currently operate an additional or selective licensing scheme — only the national mandatory HMO rules apply. This page explains who needs a mandatory licence and what the obligations are for landlords here.

Licensing status in Bromley

Sourced from Bromley announcements and tracked by our weekly scanner. Last checked 13 July 2026. Always verify directly with the council before applying.

Mandatory onlyEffective: Mandatory only

Bromley — Mandatory HMO Licensing Only

Bromley operates only the national mandatory HMO licensing scheme — there is no additional or selective licensing in the borough. Mandatory licence required for HMOs with 5+ occupants from 2+ households sharing facilities.

Read the original announcement →

National mandatory HMO rules (apply everywhere in England)

Regardless of any Bromley-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).

HMO licensing in Bromley — FAQ

Do I need an HMO licence in Bromley?
Bromley doesn't run an additional or selective licensing scheme, so only the national mandatory HMO licence applies: you need one if you let to 5 or more people forming 2 or more households who share a kitchen, bathroom or toilet.
How many tenants make a property an HMO in Bromley?
The national test is the same across England: 5 or more occupants from 2 or more separate households sharing a kitchen, bathroom or toilet need a mandatory licence.
What's the penalty for an unlicensed HMO in Bromley?
Letting an unlicensed HMO in Bromley can mean a civil penalty of up to £30,000 per offence, a Rent Repayment Order of up to 12 months' rent, and a criminal record.
Where do I apply for an HMO licence in Bromley?
HMO licence applications in Bromley are handled by London Borough of Bromley. Use the official scheme links above for the current rules and the application route.

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Disclaimer: This page is an indicative guide based on publicly announced Bromley 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 Bromley before letting or applying for a licence.