These answers explain common London HMO property-compliance questions. They are general information, not legal advice. Council licensing conditions and a building’s specific circumstances determine the checks and documents required.
What is a house in multiple occupation (HMO)?
An HMO generally involves at least three people forming more than one household who share facilities such as a kitchen or bathroom. Different rules can apply to certain buildings. The official GOV.UK HMO guidance explains the starting definition.
Does every London HMO need a council licence?
Not necessarily. Mandatory HMO licensing generally applies to properties occupied by five or more people in more than one household, while boroughs can introduce additional licensing covering some smaller HMOs and selective licensing for certain privately rented properties. Check with your local council using the borough directory and the official licence guidance.
Can you issue an HMO licence?
No. HMO licences are issued by the relevant local authority, not by an inspection and certification enquiry website. We can discuss the inspection and report services you have been asked to arrange.
How often must an electrical installation be inspected?
England’s rented-sector electrical-safety guidance generally requires inspection and testing by a qualified person at least every five years, or sooner where the report requires it. Read the government’s electrical safety guidance or see our EICR service.
Does a landlord gas safety check happen every year?
Landlord-supplied gas appliances and flues covered by the gas safety rules normally require an annual check by a Gas Safe registered engineer. See GOV.UK landlord safety responsibilities and our gas safety service.
Does every HMO need an EPC?
An EPC requirement depends on the type of transaction and how the building or accommodation is let. A shared house is not automatically treated the same way as a self-contained flat, and exemptions may apply. Tell us how the property is used so the correct assessment scope can be discussed; see our EPC information.
Do I need a legionella certificate each year?
There is no general legal requirement for landlords to obtain an annual ‘legionella test certificate’. Landlords do need to assess and control relevant water-system risks, with reviews where circumstances change. The Health and Safety Executive’s landlord guidance explains this distinction. Our risk assessment page describes enquiry options.
Is PAT testing legally compulsory every year?
There is no single annual PAT-testing rule applying to all residential HMOs. Duties to maintain safe electrical equipment and licence conditions still matter, and a risk-based inspection or testing schedule may be appropriate. Discuss the appliance types and any licence conditions before arranging PAT testing.
What happens if an EICR identifies C1, C2 or FI?
C1 and C2 indicate dangers requiring action; FI signals further investigation. A C3 is a recommendation rather than, by itself, a finding that makes the report unsatisfactory. The qualified electrician’s report and statutory requirements determine the next steps. See the government guidance.
Can I order several property checks through one enquiry?
Yes. Tell us which checks you need, the postcode, property type, occupancy and available access. We can discuss coordinating the requested services, but the quotation, professionals and appointment availability are confirmed for the individual property.
What should I send to get a quote?
A postcode, contact number, property type, estimated occupancy or room count, requested checks and your preferred time frame are usually sufficient to begin. You can also mention any council letter without uploading unnecessary personal information.
Still have a question?
Call 07506 892739 or use the enquiry form. For council licence applications, always verify the current rules with the local authority.