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 → Plymouth HMO licensing guide
HMO licence in Plymouth — do I 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. Always verify directly with the council before applying.
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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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.