Richmond upon Thames HMO licensing guide

Richmond upon Thames HMO licence — do you need one?

Richmond upon Thames 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.

Which licence do you need in Richmond upon Thames?

England runs three separate regimes. More than one can apply to the same property.

  • Mandatory HMO licenceExplained on this page5 or more occupants from 2+ households sharing a kitchen, bathroom or toiletApplies everywhere in England
  • Additional HMO licensingSmaller HMOs the national rules miss — council-designatedNot in force in Richmond upon Thames
  • Selective licensingANY privately rented home in a designated area — including single-family letsNot in force in Richmond upon Thames

Licensing status in Richmond upon Thames

Sourced from Richmond upon Thames announcements and tracked by our weekly scanner. Last checked 31 August 2026. Always verify directly with the council before applying.

Mandatory onlyEffective: Mandatory only

Richmond upon Thames — Mandatory HMO Licensing Only

Richmond operates only the national mandatory HMO licensing scheme. The council has no immediate plans to introduce additional or selective licensing.

Read the original announcement →

National mandatory HMO rules (apply everywhere in England)

Regardless of any Richmond upon Thames-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 £40,000 (raised from £30,000 on 1 May 2026) and Rent Repayment Orders of up to 2 years' rent.
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HMO licensing in Richmond upon Thames — FAQ

Do I need an HMO licence in Richmond upon Thames?
Richmond upon Thames 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 Richmond upon Thames?
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 Richmond upon Thames?
Letting an unlicensed HMO in Richmond upon Thames can mean a civil penalty of up to £40,000 per offence — the maximum rose from £30,000 on 1 May 2026 under the Renters' Rights Act 2025 — plus a Rent Repayment Order of up to 2 years' rent and a criminal record.
Where do I apply for an HMO licence in Richmond upon Thames?
HMO licence applications in Richmond upon Thames are handled by London Borough of Richmond upon Thames. Use the official scheme links above for the current rules and the application route.

Referencing tenants for your Richmond upon Thames HMO?

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HMO licensing in other councils

Compare Richmond upon Thames with other areas we track.

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