Kingston upon Hull HMO licensing guide

Kingston upon Hull HMO licence — do you need one?

Kingston upon Hull is currently consulting on private-sector property licensing. There are no confirmed schemes on our register yet, but the consultation may lead to one. This page tracks the latest status.

Active and upcoming schemes

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

ConsultationEffective: 1 September 2026 (proposed)

Hull Proposed Borough-Wide Selective Licensing

Hull City Council launched a consultation in January 2026 on a proposed borough-wide selective licensing scheme. Proposed fee £720 per property for 5 years. If approved, the scheme is expected to commence on 1 September 2026.

Read the original announcement →

National mandatory HMO rules (apply everywhere in England)

Regardless of any Kingston upon Hull-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 Kingston upon Hull — FAQ

Do I need an HMO licence in Kingston upon Hull?
Kingston upon Hull is currently consulting on property licensing. For now only the national mandatory HMO licence applies — you need one if you let to 5 or more people from 2 or more households — but that may change if a scheme is confirmed.
How many tenants make a property an HMO in Kingston upon Hull?
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 Kingston upon Hull?
Letting an unlicensed HMO in Kingston upon Hull 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 Kingston upon Hull?
HMO licence applications in Kingston upon Hull are handled by Kingston upon Hull City Council. 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 Kingston upon Hull schemes and the Housing Act 2004 standard test. It is not legal advice. Council schemes change frequently — always confirm the current position with Kingston upon Hull City Council before letting or applying for a licence.