Bristol City Council has now approved two significant schemes following last year’s consultation process, both schemes will take effect on August 6, 2024. These initiatives encompass a citywide additional House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) licensing scheme and a selective licensing scheme which will cover 3 wards. Under the additional licensing scheme, any property classified as an HMO (housing three or more individuals from two or more households, sharing accommodation and facilities) must secure a valid and current HMO licence. The selective licensing scheme that has been approved, applies to most other privately rented properties, with a focus on three specific wards: Bishopston and Ashley Down, Cotham, and Easton. Essentially, as of Tuesday, August 6, 2024, all HMOs within Bristol City Council’s jurisdiction and most other privately rented properties in the above wards must obtain a license.
These schemes will operate for five years, with each property being subject to at least one inspection during this period to ensure compliance with licensing standards. Landlords and agents will have a grace period of up to three months from the commencement date to submit their licensing applications along with the required fees. For HMOs currently licensed under existing additional licensing schemes, a re-licensing process will be necessary upon the expiration of their current licences while the new scheme is in effect. It’s important to note that HMOs occupied by five or more individuals remain subject to mandatory HMO licensing and are not covered under the citywide additional scheme.
Failure to comply with licensing requirements carries legal repercussions, including prosecution, potential fines, and rent repayment orders. Landlords must fulfil their obligation to apply for a licence for each property falling within the scope of licensing schemes. If you’d like any further information on licensing, planning, or any other HMO-related matters, pop on over to KPAs website at www.kpa.co.uk, subscribe to our newsletter, or simply give us a call. KPA Property Management specialises in HMO management, and we are always happy to give guidance and assistance, wherever we can.
HMOs are a great cash flowing model and, when set up and managed correctly, they can yield more than several single lets put together. They are, however, compliance and regulation heavy and require a more hands on approach than most single lets do. Research and experience are advised, in all things relating to HMOs, to ensure everyone’s safety and peace of mind – the landlord’s, the tenants’ and the property.
As Landlords and Investors ourselves, we can help and advise on all aspects of your portfolio. If we can help you then give us a call on 0117 440 6789 or email us here together we can make being a landlord simple, passive and stress free!
