Do I need an HMO licence in Slough?

Slough 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 Slough?

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 Slough?

Letting an unlicensed HMO in Slough 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 Slough?

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

Slough HMO licensing guide

Slough HMO licence — do you need one?

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

Consultation

Slough Proposed Selective and Additional Licensing Schemes (All Wards)

Slough Council is consulting on plans to introduce new selective and additional licensing schemes, with ambitions to expand coverage to all wards in the borough.

Read the original announcement →

National mandatory HMO rules (apply everywhere in England)

Regardless of any Slough-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).

Run the free HMO checker

HMO licensing in Slough — FAQ

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

Stay on top of HMO compliance with RentFig

RentFig tracks every HMO licence renewal alongside gas safety, EICR, EPC, fire alarm tests and right-to-rent checks. Email reminders, audit trail, AI assistant on WhatsApp. Free for one property.

Start free See features

HMO licensing in other councils

Compare Slough with other areas we track.

View all councils we track →

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