Active Business FAQ

I act as an agent and manage properties for other owners, should I register?

Yes.  Agents must register independently because the landlords whose property they manage will list you on their applications meaning that you will be assessed to ensure that you are also fit and proper to let residential property.

I am licensed to let a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO), must I still register?

If you have an HMO licence, then you have already been assessed as 'fit and proper', you have already paid your fee you have been added automatically to the Register of Landlords. However, if you also let non-HMO properties, you must register these separately and pay the appropriate fee.

I own a property jointly with someone else.  Do we both need to register?

All joint owners must register. If the joint owners are members of the same family, they can nominate a 'lead owner' who will pay a full fee while the other family members pay no fee.

Who has access to the information that I provide when I register?

The Register of Landlords can be viewed on the Internet and members of the public will be able to see whether you are registered. They will have access to your name and contact address for you and your agent.

How much does an HMO licence cost and for how long is  it valid?

An HMO licence costs £1,000 and lasts for three years.

What happens if I operate an HMO without a licence?

On conviction of such an offence, an unlicensed owner is liable to a fine of up to £5,000. They will not be considered fit and proper to be registered as a private landlord for all other properties that they let.