A new Additional HMO Licensing Scheme has come into effect in Southampton, targeting three and four-bedroom Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). This new scheme has significant implications for landlords in the area and introduces new administrative requirements and costs.

PBSA Now Included in Licensing

A key positive element of the new scheme is that it ensures Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) is now included under licensing. While PBSA is exempt from Mandatory HMO Licensing, the introduction of this Additional scheme means these large blocks will now be licensed, standardizing compliance across the student housing sector.

Deadlines and Administrative Burden

The new scheme requires immediate attention from landlords, especially those who intend to use the independent surveyor route.

• Survey Deadline: Landlords choosing the independent surveyor route must have the survey completed and the licence application submitted by the end of the year.
• Increased Costs and Bureaucracy: The implementation of this scheme has seen the licensing fee significantly increased. Furthermore, the council has re-instated the requirement for floor plans, which is seen by some as an unnecessary bureaucratic hurdle.

Landlords and agents operating three and four-bedroom HMOs in Southampton should review the new requirements immediately to ensure compliance and avoid potential penalties.

For full details on the new scheme, fees, and application process, please visit the Southampton City Council HMO Licensing page: https://www.southampton.gov.uk/housing/landlords/houses-in-multiple-occupation-hmo/licences/