HMO Licensing in Wales

Wales HMO licensing overview

Wales uses the same mandatory licensing criteria as England. The Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 introduced significant changes to tenancy law—ensure you comply with both HMO licensing and the new occupation contract requirements.

Key Welsh licensing differences

• • Cardiff, Swansea, and other cities may operate additional licensing schemes in designated areas.
• • Welsh councils set their own licence fees and processing times.
• • Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 occupation contracts apply alongside HMO licensing obligations.
• • Fire safety, gas safety, and electrical standards still apply as mandatory licence conditions.

Application steps in Wales

1. Check whether mandatory (5+ people, 2+ households) or additional licensing applies to your property.
2. Download the application form from your Welsh local authority website.
3. Submit certificates, floor plans, and fit-and-proper person declarations with the licence fee.
4. Allow time for council inspection and respond to any improvement notices promptly.

Browse Welsh councils in our Wales council directory.

• • Mandatory licensing: 5+ people, 2+ households, shared facilities
• • Additional licensing: Check your council for local schemes
• • Apply to your local Welsh authority
• • Renting Homes (Wales) Act: occupation contracts, fitness for human habitation