Understand the main licensing types used across England, then check an address when you need the exact answer for one property.
This page explains the categories. The property check gives the property-level answer.
This is the national baseline for larger HMOs. It usually becomes relevant when occupancy, household mix, or building layout crosses the legal threshold.
Councils can extend HMO licensing to smaller shared homes. The trigger is local, so the same property profile can be licensable in one borough and not in another.
Selective schemes can capture standard private rented homes in designated areas. This is usually the category that catches landlords and agents out when they rely on generic guidance.
Use this page to understand the categories. Check an address when the answer depends on a real property.
HMO licensing covers rented homes shared by people from more than one household. Mandatory HMO licensing is the national rule for larger HMOs, while some councils also run additional licensing for smaller shared properties.
Selective licensing is a council-run scheme for ordinary private rented homes in designated areas. Unlike HMO licensing, it is not limited to shared properties, which is why council-by-council context matters so much.
Use the map or council guides for context first. If the answer depends on one property, check the address and review the applicable schemes and council evidence.
Run a property check to see the licensing answer, the supporting council evidence, and the latest review date.