Gloucester cracks down on poorly managed HMOs to protect neighbourhoods

From 21 September 2026, landlords of HMOs occupied by three or four people as two or more households will be required to obtain a licence from the council, unless the property is already covered by existing mandatory HMO licensing rules.

The new Additional Licensing Scheme, approved following a public consultation, will apply across the whole city and forms part of the council's wider efforts to improve standards in the private rented sector and support thriving, sustainable neighbourhoods.

The scheme will give the council stronger powers to identify and address poorly managed HMOs, ensuring landlords meet their responsibilities and providing greater reassurance for tenants and residents alike.

Councillor Jeremy Hilton, Leader of Gloucester City Council, said:

"Most landlords provide safe and well-managed homes, but where standards fall short it can have a real impact on tenants and neighbouring residents. This new licensing scheme will help us drive up standards, tackle problems before they escalate and support vibrant communities across Gloucester."

The council's evidence found that a significant proportion of HMOs within the city were being managed ineffectively, contributing to issues affecting both occupants and the wider community.

By requiring landlords to be licensed and meet clear management standards, the council aims to improve housing conditions, reduce nuisance and anti-social behaviour, and ensure shared housing continues to play a positive role in meeting local housing needs.

Landlords whose properties are affected by the scheme are encouraged to check their responsibilities and apply for a licence before the scheme comes into force and an early-bird discounted license fee is in place for all additional HMO licence applications received before 21st September 2026.

For more information, see Gloucester’s HMO pages online.