New HMO licensing scheme to drive up standards for private renters

All landlords in Brent who rent out houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) will soon be required by law to hold a licence.

Following a public consultation and Cabinet approval of the scheme on 13 October 2025, landlords renting out smaller HMOs will be required to obtain a licence from 2 February 2026.

The new Additional HMO Licensing Scheme covers smaller HMOs with three or four tenants from different households. A Mandatory Licence already applies to larger HMOs housing five or more people and a Selective Licence is required for any non-HMO rented property, such as a single-let or family home (except in Wembley Park).

A similar scheme operated between 2020 and January 2025, leading to significant improvements in housing standards and property management across the borough.

Councillor Fleur Donnelly-Jackson, Cabinet Member for Housing, said:

“Everyone deserves to live in a safe, secure, and well-maintained home. Poor housing conditions can pose serious risks to the health, safety and wellbeing of residents, and we know that tenants in HMOs are often more reluctant to report issues such as disrepair or poor management through fear of eviction.

“The new Additional HMO Licensing Scheme will help address this by requiring all HMO landlords to meet clear standards for the letting and management of their properties. Every licensed property will be inspected and landlords will be informed of any necessary safety or improvement works. If they fail to act, the council will take enforcement action to make sure standards are upheld and tenants are protected.

"This scheme will help drive up standards for renters and support responsible landlords.”

An Additional HMO Licence, valid for up to five years, will cost £1,040 from 2 February 2026. Landlords who apply early can secure the lower current rate of £840, with licences becoming active from February 2026.

Get licensed today.