Do I need an HMO licence in Plymouth?

Plymouth 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 Plymouth?

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 Plymouth?

Letting an unlicensed HMO in Plymouth 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 Plymouth?

HMO licence applications in Plymouth are handled by Plymouth City Council. Use the official scheme links above for the current rules and the application route.

Plymouth HMO licensing guide

Plymouth HMO licence — do you need one?

Plymouth 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 Plymouth

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

Mandatory onlyEffective: Mandatory only

Plymouth — Mandatory HMO Licensing Only

Plymouth operates only the national mandatory HMO licensing scheme. The council has not adopted additional or selective licensing.

Read the original announcement →

National mandatory HMO rules (apply everywhere in England)

Regardless of any Plymouth-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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HMO licensing in Plymouth — FAQ

Do I need an HMO licence in Plymouth?: Plymouth 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 Plymouth?: 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 Plymouth?: Letting an unlicensed HMO in Plymouth 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 Plymouth?: HMO licence applications in Plymouth are handled by Plymouth City Council. Use the official scheme links above for the current rules and the application route.

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HMO licensing in other councils

Compare Plymouth with other areas we track.

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Disclaimer: This page is an indicative guide based on publicly announced Plymouth schemes and the Housing Act 2004 standard test. It is not legal advice. Council schemes change frequently — always confirm the current position with Plymouth City Council before letting or applying for a licence.