Landlords urged to act before new HMO licensing rules come into force
From 21 September 2026, Gloucester City Council will introduce a new citywide Additional Licensing Scheme requiring landlords of smaller HMOs occupied by three or four people as two or more households to obtain a licence, unless the property is already covered by mandatory HMO licensing rules.
The council is urging landlords to check whether their property is affected and submit an application as soon as possible so they are ready for the new requirements and avoid the risk of enforcement action.
In response to feedback from landlords, the early-bird discount has been extended until 20 October 2026, giving eligible landlords extra time to apply at the reduced fee.
The council believes the scheme will help ensure clear management standards are met, improve housing conditions, reduce nuisance and anti-social behaviour, and support better-quality shared housing across Gloucester.
Councillor Jeremy Hilton, Leader of Gloucester City Council, said:
"The 21 September deadline is almost here, so we are encouraging landlords to act now and make sure they understand whether the new rules apply to them. This scheme will help raise standards in shared housing, support responsible landlords, and give tenants and residents greater confidence."
The scheme follows evidence gathered by the council that some HMOs in the city were not being managed effectively, creating concerns for tenants and neighbouring communities.
Approved following public consultation, the scheme will operate citywide and forms part of the council’s wider work to improve standards in the private rented sector and support thriving, sustainable neighbourhoods.
Landlords who may be affected should apply now to ensure they are ready when the scheme begins on 21 September 2026 and to take advantage of the early-bird discount before it closes on 20 October 2026.
For more information, visit Gloucester City Council’s HMO licensing information page: HMO licensing information | Gloucester City Council