How many councils in England have HMO licensing?

All local authorities in England enforce mandatory HMO licensing for 5+ person properties. Many also run additional or selective schemes. This directory lists 234 councils with licensing information.

Which English regions have the most licensed HMOs?

London and major metropolitan areas typically have the highest numbers. This directory shows 48,040 licensed HMOs across England where register data is available.

Do London boroughs have different HMO rules?

Yes. Each of the 32 London boroughs plus the City of London sets its own fees, additional licensing boundaries, and selective licensing schemes. Always check your specific borough council.

HMO Licensing in England

Select a region to browse 234 councils with HMO licensing information.

234 councils

48,040 licensed HMOs

1 with additional licensing

1 with selective licensing

About HMO licensing in England

England has over 234 local authorities responsible for HMO licensing. Mandatory licensing applies to properties with 5 or more people forming 2+ households who share facilities. Many councils also operate additional or selective licensing schemes that extend to smaller HMOs.

Select a region below to browse councils. London has 33 boroughs (including the City of London), each with its own licensing rules. Other regions include Greater Manchester, West Midlands, South East, and more.

Additional vs mandatory licensing →

Regions

London

32 councils · 48,040 licensed HMOs · 1 additional licensing · 1 selective licensing

57 councils

40 councils

24 councils

22 councils

27 councils

29 councils

3 councils

Frequently asked questions

How many councils in England have HMO licensing?: All local authorities in England enforce mandatory HMO licensing for 5+ person properties. Many also run additional or selective schemes. This directory lists 234 councils with licensing information.
Which English regions have the most licensed HMOs?: London and major metropolitan areas typically have the highest numbers. This directory shows 48,040 licensed HMOs across England where register data is available.
Do London boroughs have different HMO rules?: Yes. Each of the 32 London boroughs plus the City of London sets its own fees, additional licensing boundaries, and selective licensing schemes. Always check your specific borough council.

Summary

Councils234

Licensed HMOs48,040

Additional licensing1

Selective licensing1