Information for landlords and tenants

Information for tenants

The council is responsible for enforcing HMO standards. If you're a tenant living in an HMO and think there are unreasonable hazards, or that the property isn't being managed properly, please contact us to report it.

The Renters' Rights Act 2025 introduces the most significant changes to private renting in decades, aiming to make renting fairer and more secure for tenants while providing clarity for landlords.

If your landlord should have had an HMO licence but didn't, you may have additional protections. You can apply to the Residential Property Tribunal for a rent repayment order, claiming back rent paid during the unlicensed period, up to a limit of 24 months. You also cannot be evicted using a Housing Act 1988 notice until the property is licensed or a management order is in place. This applies only where the same person controls or manages both the licensing and the tenancy.

Information for landlords

If you're a landlord or agent letting out rooms in an HMO, you must hold a licence, and the property must meet minimum health, safety and HMO standards.

Landlords must read the Renters' Rights Act guidance and make sure their letting practices comply with the new law, which came into force on 1 May 2026. The government has launched its awareness campaign for landlords  and published a landlord checklist  to help you prepare.

Tackling anti-social behaviour linked to HMOs is a council priority. Licences may carry specific conditions requiring you to:

• report persistent anti-social behaviour by visitors or occupiers to the police
• ensure security arrangements are in place to prevent unauthorised access
• install external sensor lighting where appropriate
• include anti-social behaviour clauses in tenancy agreements.

Tenants who consistently cause problems are in breach of their tenancy, and you can take steps to recover possession of the property as a result.