Resources — Operating · 7 min

HMO Compliance Checklist

HMOs out-earn single lets because they carry more obligation — licensing, fire safety, minimum standards. None of it is difficult; all of it is mandatory. Confirm the licensing position before you buy, not after.

How to use this

Use it twice: before purchase, to confirm the licensing and planning position — then quarterly, as an operating audit with the certificates in front of you.

Download the PDF Run the numbers →

Before purchase

Mandatory licensing applies at 5+ occupants from 2+ households — check your council's additional and selective schemes too
Article 4 direction check: C4 planning permission may be required for a new HMO
Minimum room sizes: 6.51m² single, 10.22m² double (councils can set higher)
Amenity ratios: kitchens, bathrooms and WCs per occupant to your council's standard
Existing HMO: ask for the current licence and any inspection reports

Fire safety

Interlinked mains-powered smoke detection to the appropriate grade, heat detector in kitchen
30-minute fire doors with closers on habitable rooms and kitchen
Protected escape route with emergency lighting where required
Fire blanket in kitchen; extinguishers where your risk assessment requires
A written fire risk assessment, reviewed annually

Certificates & records

Gas safety certificate — annually
EICR electrical report — five-yearly
PAT testing for any appliances you supply
EPC rated E or better (check current minimum standard)
Deposit protection and prescribed information within 30 days
Right to Rent checks documented for every occupant

Ongoing management

Licence conditions diarised: inspections, waste arrangements, occupancy limits
Quarterly property inspection with photos and log
Manager's contact details displayed in the property
Renewal dates tracked: licence, certificates, insurance — a shared calendar, not memory