Lewisham HMO licensing guide

HMO licence in Lewisham — do I need one?

Lewisham has 2 licensing schemes 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 Lewisham announcements and tracked by our weekly scanner. Always verify directly with the council before applying.

Additional HMOEffective: 5 April 2022 to 4 April 2027

Lewisham Borough-Wide Additional HMO Licensing

Borough-wide additional licensing covering smaller HMOs (3+ people from 2+ households). Does not apply to Section 257 converted-blocks HMOs.

Read the original announcement →
SelectiveEffective: 1 July 2024 (5 years)

Lewisham Selective Licensing — 16 of 18 wards

Selective licensing covering 16 of Lewisham's 18 wards (excluding only Blackheath and Telegraph Hill). Three designations combined: Brockley, Catford South, Lewisham Central, New Cross, Perry Vale, Rushey Green; Crofton Park, Evelyn, Ladywell, Lee Green, Sydenham; Bellingham, Downham, Forest Hill, Grove Park, Whitefoot.

Read the original announcement →

National mandatory HMO rules (apply everywhere in England)

Regardless of any Lewisham-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 Lewisham 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 Lewisham before letting or applying for a licence.