Property Licensing Guide for Bristol
This free guide will provide you with the key details regarding what licensing requirements are necessary in this area and how to apply for a licence.
Bristol Property Licensing Schemes
Got questions about licensing schemes in Bristol? We’re here to help. This free guide will provide you with the key details regarding what licensing requirements are necessary in Bristol and how to apply for a licence.
Is manual compliance causing a headache for your agency? At Kamma, we specialise in automating licensing compliance for agents across the UK. If you need any assistance in getting your property portfolio compliant, find out how we can help letting agents here.
What are the licensing requirements for Bristol?
Mandatory licensing in Bristol
Mandatory licensing is necessary across the UK & Wales for all privately rented properties with over five occupants forming two or more households. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Shared houses and flats occupied by students and young professionals.
- Properties converted into bedsits with some shared facilities.
- Properties converted into a mix of self-contained and non-self-contained accommodation.
Do I need an additional property licence in Bristol?
Bristol council has two additional licensing schemes, with one set to start in August 2024. An additional licensing scheme requires all private properties with three or more people forming two or more households in the area to be licensed.
The full breakdown of additional licensing schemes in Bristol is as follows:
- Bristol additional scheme 1: Covering Horfield, Brislington West, and Bedminster wards, running from 06/04/2022 to 05/05/2027.
- Bristol additional scheme 2: An additional scheme covering central Bristol is currently running until July 2024, with a new replacement scheme starting from 06/08/2024 to 05/08/2029, covering all wards in Bristol.
Do I need a selective licence in Bristol?
Bristol council operates two selective licensing schemes, with one set to kick off in August. A selective licensing scheme requires all privately rented properties in the area to be licensed, regardless of the number of occupants or households formed.
The Bristol selective schemes are as follows:
- Bristol selective scheme 1: Covering Brislington West and Bedminster wards, from 06/04/2022 to 05/04/2027
- Bristol selective scheme 2: Starting from 06/08/2024 to 05/08/2029, covering Bishopton, Ashley Down, Cotham, and Easton.
How do I apply for a licence?
Bristol Council has an online HMO licensing application process accessible here. For Kamma users, we offer a licence application service for Bristol. Get in touch with us here to find out more.
How much does a licence cost in Bristol?
The fee for upcoming city-wide additional schemes is £1,861.
The current additional schemes in Bedminster, Brislington West, and Horfield are £1,300.
The central Bristol additional scheme is currently £1,255.
The upcoming selective licensing fees are £912.
These fees are subject to change and are accurate as of 18th April 2024.
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What happens if I don't get a licence in Bristol?
Ignoring the law could result in prosecution by Bristol Council, fines, court costs, and more. Ensure you comply with all regulations to avoid these risks. Fines for non-compliant agents can be up to £30,000 per non-compliant property, as well as rent repayment orders of up to 12 months.
If you’re concerned about unlicensed properties in your portfolio, book a free consultation today with one of our consultants to get a property licensing check here. By keeping your properties in line with your region’s licensing requirements, you can maintain peace of mind that you won’t get burnt by non-compliance.
Licensing enforcement efforts in Bristol
Bristol has implemented several licensing schemes to enhance housing standards and address anti-social behaviour. The Stapleton Road scheme (2013-2018) licensed 1,207 properties, resolving serious hazards in 396 and issuing 665 notices, leading to 10 landlord prosecutions. The Eastville and St George scheme (2016-2021) issued 3,316 licenses, conducted 3,409 inspections, and improved 88% of properties, with 752 notices issued and over £62,000 in penalties. The Central Additional Licensing Scheme (2019-2024) has inspected 2,157 properties, finding 94% non-compliant and enhancing fire safety in 1,115 homes. The newest scheme in Bedminster, Brislington West, and Horfield began in April 2022 and is still early in its implementation, with expected outcomes similar to previous schemes.
If you’re unsure as to the properties you manage may need a HMO licence in Bristol, feel free to use our Bristol property licence checker to receive a free licensing report.
Frequently asked questions:
Is Bristol council planning on introducing any new licensing schemes?
Bristol council is launching both an additional and selective scheme in August 2024, as outlined above.
What happens after I apply for a property licence in Bristol?
After applying for a licence in Bristol, you and other legal parties will receive the proposed licence, a notice, a conditions document, and a schedule of works if needed. If refused, you’ll get a notice with reasons.
There is a 14-day period to ask questions, challenge the decision, or comment. Mortgage companies may need licence confirmation before agreeing to a loan.
Post-representation, you’ll be notified if your licence is granted or refused, with licences typically issued within 24 months. An inspection will be arranged to check for hazards. If needed, a schedule of works will be issued for compliance.
You may apply for a loan up to £20,000 for necessary work, with a fixed 4% interest rate, available for five years. Eligibility requires letting the property for five years, having sufficient equity, and completing a Fit and Proper Person declaration.
What are the room standards to obtain a property licence in Bristol?
To get a property licence in Bristol for a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO), personal washing and toilet facilities must be within two floors of any bedroom, with adequate size, hot water, and good condition. Each room with a toilet requires a wash basin. For up to four occupants, one bath/shower and toilet are needed; for five or more, an additional bath/shower and a separate toilet per five occupants.
Kitchens must be within one floor of a dining area, equipped with a sink, draining board, hot and cold water, and a cooker with a four-ring hob, oven, and grill. Four sockets plus one per major appliance, fixed worktops, and adequate storage (0.3m³ per occupant) are required.
Rooms need fixed heating appliances and proper ventilation. Minimum bedroom sizes are 6.51m² for one person and 10.22m² for two. Kitchens range from 5m² for up to three people to 11m² for ten, with communal living spaces starting at 13.5m² for three occupants. Compliance with these standards will be assessed using the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS).
What are the fire safety standards to obtain a property licence in Bristol?
To get a property licence in Bristol for a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO), fire safety standards must be met. Properties require a working smoke alarm on each floor and a heat alarm in the kitchen, both interconnected. Fire doors with self-closing devices are necessary for all bedrooms and high-risk areas, with intumescent strips and cold smoke seals. Escape routes must be clear and protected, leading directly to a final exit. Emergency lighting is needed in corridors and staircases if natural light is insufficient. Fire blankets should be provided in kitchens, and fire extinguishers should be available on each floor. Compliance with these standards will be assessed using the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS).
About Bristol
Bristol, a vibrant city in southwestern England, blends historic charm with modern vitality. Formerly part of Gloucestershire and Somerset, Bristol became a unitary authority after the dissolution of the county of Avon. Located 120 miles west of London, at the confluence of the Rivers Avon and Frome, it has a rich maritime history, being a key port since medieval times. The city spans 42 square miles and had a population of 428,234 in 2011. Known for its cultural landmarks, including Bristol Cathedral and St. Mary Redcliffe Church, Bristol also boasts a thriving education sector, with institutions like the University of Bristol.
