Southampton HMO licensing guide

HMO licence in Southampton — do I need one?

Southampton has 1 licensing scheme on our register, on top of the national mandatory HMO rules. This page summarises the active and upcoming schemes, links to the council source, and explains what you need to do as a landlord.

Active and upcoming schemes

Sourced from Southampton announcements and tracked by our weekly scanner. Last checked 15 June 2026. Always verify directly with the council before applying.

Additional HMOEffective: 1 October 2025

Additional HMO Licensing Scheme — 9 Wards (from 1 October 2025, Including Purpose-Built Flats)

A new Additional HMO Licensing Scheme came into effect on 1 October 2025, running until 30 September 2030, covering 9 wards in Southampton. Uniquely, the scheme requires licensing of smaller HMOs (under 5 occupants) and HMOs within purpose-built accommodation blocks in those wards.

Read the original announcement →

National mandatory HMO rules (apply everywhere in England)

Regardless of any Southampton-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 Southampton schemes and the Housing Act 2004 standard test. It is not legal advice. Council schemes change frequently — always confirm the current position with Southampton City Council before letting or applying for a licence.