Mandatory HMO licensing only Mandatory HMO licensing only.
Licensing schemes in Bath and North East Somerset
| Scheme | Applies to | Area | Dates |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mandatory HMO licensing | Homes let to 5 or more people from 2 or more households who share facilities | Every council in England | Since 2006 (national law) |
What this means for landlords in Bath and North East Somerset
- Bath's additional HMO licensing scheme ended on 31 December 2023 and we found no replacement scheme in force when we checked.
- Larger HMOs (5 or more people from 2 or more households) still need a mandatory HMO licence.
- The council consulted on a new private rented sector enforcement and financial penalty policy in September 2026, so check its housing pages for changes.
How to check your property
- Work out who lives there: how many people, and whether they are one household or sharers.
- Check the exact address against the council's map or address checker. Schemes often cover parts of wards, and boundaries change.
- Apply before you let, or straight away if a new scheme has started. Letting without a required licence can lead to a fine or civil penalty and a rent repayment order.
- Check planning too. Some areas need planning permission to turn a family home into a small HMO (an Article 4 direction).
Our free council finder tells you which council covers a postcode, and the HMO compliance checker helps you work out whether a property is an HMO.
Official information: Bath and North East Somerset Council: HMO licence types
Other councils
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a licence to rent out a house in Bath and North East Somerset?
It depends on the property, who lives there and exactly where it is. Every council licenses larger HMOs (5 or more people from 2 or more households). We found no additional or selective licensing scheme in Bath and North East Somerset when we checked. Check the address with Bath and North East Somerset Council.
What happens if I let a property in Bath and North East Somerset without a licence?
Letting a property that needs a licence without one is a criminal offence. The council can prosecute or issue a civil penalty, and tenants or the council can apply for a rent repayment order.
How does LandlordHub help with licensing?
LandlordHub tracks each property's licence alongside gas, electrical, EPC and other certificates, and reminds you before anything expires. The council finder and HMO checker are free to use without an account.