Warwick District Council’s additional licensing scheme officially came into force on Thursday 18th January 2024.
The district wide scheme requires landlords with houses, converted flats or purpose-built flats (including student accommodation) occupied by three or more persons living as two or more households to obtain an HMO licence to continue to operate.
In advance of the new rules, many HMO landlords who are known to the council have already received a licensing pack.
Since 1st January, the council has been inviting landlords to make their HMO licence applications with ‘early bird’ discounted fees available to those who submit them in full by 14th March.
Any landlord whose HMO has been in continuous operation from 18th January, should ensure that they have applied for a licence by 18th July.
Enforcement action will be taken by the Private Sector Housing team in the autumn for landlords who have failed to obtain a licence.
Cllr Paul Wightman, portfolio holder for housing, commented: “We are encouraged by the number of new applications for an HMO licence that have already been received.
“Landlords needing any support or guidance on the new rules and clarity on their responsibilities should contact the Private Sector Housing team who are here to help.”
