Property Licensing Guide for Oxford
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.
Oxford Property Licensing Schemes
Got questions about licensing schemes in Oxford? We’re here to help. This free guide will provide you with the key details regarding what licensing requirements are necessary in Oxford 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 Oxford?
Mandatory licensing in Oxford:
Mandatory licensing is required in Oxford for all HMO properties made up of 5 or more people from two different households. This includes:
- 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 a selective property licence in Oxford?
Selective licensing is required for all privately rented properties in a designated area, regardless of the number of occupants or households formed.
Oxford Council currently operates one selective licensing scheme, covering the entire region. It runs from 1st September 2022 until 31st August 2027
Do I need an additional licence in Oxford?
Additional licensing requires all HMO’s with 3 or more people from more than one household to obtain a property licence.
Oxford City Council currently operates one additional licensing scheme, covering the entire region. It runs from 10th June 2021 until 9th June 2026
Find out how we helped an agency make £3k+ in profit through our licensing application service
READ THE CASE STUDY
How do I apply for a licence in Oxford?
Oxford City Council has an online HMO licensing application process accessible here. For Kamma users, we offer a licensing application service for Oxford. Get in touch with us here to find out more.
How much does a license cost?
Mandatory licence fee: £505
Selective licence fee: £480
These fees are subject to change and are accurate as of 1st July 2024
Get instant access to compliance reports across all properties
Kamma uses data-driven technology to help companies like yours deal with complex compliance effortlessly. We specialise in simplifying compliance to make anyone in your team an expert, providing your landlords with the peace of mind that they are in safe hands.
What happens if I don't get a licence in Oxford?
Ignoring the law could result in prosecution by Oxford 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.
Frequently asked questions:
Is Oxford City council planning to introduce any new licensing schemes?
Oxford City Council is not currently implementing or consulting any new licensing schemes.
Why did Oxford City council introduce selective licensing?
Oxford City Council introduced selective licensing to improve the conditions of its large private rented sector, which accounts for 49.3% of housing in the city, far exceeding the national average. The scheme aimed to address significant issues, including poor property conditions, high levels of antisocial behaviour, and a lack of proper management by landlords. A review found that 20.4% of private rented homes had serious hazards, affecting over 6,200 properties, while more than 4,000 complaints were lodged regarding antisocial behaviour between 2015 and 2019. By implementing selective licensing, the council seeks to improve housing standards and protect tenants across the cit
Why did Oxford City council introduce additonal licensing?
Oxford City Council introduced additional HMO licensing to address widespread issues in smaller Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) that were not covered under mandatory licensing. The scheme was introduced in 2011 and renewed in 2016 to tackle poor housing conditions, safety concerns, and inadequate management practices in smaller HMOs. A review found that only 49% of licensed HMOs were fully compliant, with a significant proportion being ineffectively managed. The scheme aimed to improve living conditions, ensure consistent management standards across all HMOs, and address issues like overcrowding and antisocial behaviour, benefiting both tenants and the wider community
About Oxford
Oxford is a historic city in southeast England, renowned for its prestigious University of Oxford, one of the oldest and most famous educational institutions in the world. The city boasts a rich architectural heritage, with iconic buildings like the Radcliffe Camera and Bodleian Library. Oxford is a vibrant cultural hub, offering a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, including museums, theatres, and green spaces. As a centre for education, research, and innovation, Oxford attracts a diverse population, making it a dynamic and thriving city.
