Small HMOs could see changes to licensing

Woking Borough Council says it will consider plans to extending licensing of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs)

Landlords in a Surrey borough could be required to apply for licences for smaller Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) to help improve housing standards, a council has said.

Woking Borough Council is consulting landlords and tenants on plans to extend licensing requirements for HMOs to include properties with three or more inhabitants.

Beverley Kuchar, the council's director for place, said the scheme "will enable us to work proactively with landlords to improve property standards, protect vulnerable tenants and help create more settled, better-supported communities".

The consultation runs until 31 August with in-person events planned for landlords, letting agents and residents throughout July.

HMOs are defined as properties where three or more people from at least two different households share facilities such as kitchens and bathrooms.

Those with more than five occupants already require a license under UK law.

More than 20% of Woking residents live in the private rented sector, the council said.

If approved, the scheme would be implemented from the beginning of 2026.

The council added that an additional licensing scheme would help the council take action against landlords operating illegally or irresponsibly.