Property licences
Further information
Who will need a property licence?
The vast majority of rented properties in the South Norfolk area will not need a property licence. To require a licence, the landlords’ property must be:-
- At least three storeys in height, including any basement or attic used for accommodation, AND;
- Be occupied by five or more people not forming one household, i.e. not the same family, AND;
- The occupants must share some basic amenities such as kitchen, bathroom or toilet facilities.
If the property does not meet all three of these tests then you do not need to apply for a licence.
However, there are some other exemptions that apply. The Residential Landlords Association (RLA) have produced an excellent flow diagram - which you can see on the RLA website [external link] - to help you determine whether a licence is required.
How much will a licence cost?
The Housing Act 2004 allows us to make a charge to cover our costs over the five years of the licence. The fee for the property licence is currently £340.00, based on two units of accommodation. Where there are more than two units we will charge an additional £20.00 per let.
Criminal record checks
Additionally we will require a Criminal Records Bureaux (CRB) check on the manager of a licensed HMO to make sure that he or she is a fit and proper person to manage this type of property. The current cost is £33.00, though we will accept evidence of a current CRB check if it has been carried out in the last 12 months.
When do I need to apply?
If you are required to have a licence you should apply as soon as possible.
Related pages on this website
External links
Residential Landlords Association: is a licence required?
Flowchart explaining all the exemptions from the licence to help you decide whether your property requires a licence or not.
Department for Communities & Local Government (DCLG): Landlords – do you need a property licence?
Download the DCLG's guide to landlords on the new property licence.
DCLG: Frequently asked questions on the property licence
The answer to frequently asked questions from landlords, tenants and the community about the new property licences.
Contact us
| contact officer/team: | Housing Renewal Officer |
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| web: | online enquiry form |
| email: | hrenewal@s-norfolk.gov.uk |
| telephone: | 01508 533694 |
| minicom/textphone: | 01508 533622 |
| address: | South Norfolk Council South Norfolk House Swan Lane Long Stratton Norwich NR15 2XE |
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