Slough HMO licensing guide

HMO licence in Slough — do I 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. 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).

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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.