Property Licensing Guide for Portsmouth
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.
Portsmouth Property Licensing Schemes
Got questions about licensing schemes in Portsmouth? We’re here to help. This free guide will provide you with the key details regarding what licensing requirements are necessary in Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth?
Mandatory licensing in Portsmouth
Mandatory licensing is required in Portsmouth if your rented property is occupied by five or more people who form more than one household, including:
- 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 Portsmouth?
Additional licensing is implemented at the council’s discretion and requires that smaller HMO’s with three or more people from more than one household must obtain a licence.
Portsmouth City council currently operates one additional licensing scheme, covering the entire region. The scheme runs from 1st September 2023 until 31st August 2028.
Please note that Portsmouth’s additional licensing scheme also applies to Section 257. This means that HMOs with more than three people within a purpose built, self-contained flat, located within a block of flats comprising three or more self-contained flats must also obtain a licence
Do I need a selective licence in Portsmouth?
Selective licensing requires that all privately rented properties in a given area obtain a licence, regardless of the number of occupants or households. Portsmouth City council does not currently operate a selective licensing scheme.
How do I apply for a licence?
Portsmouth City Council has an online HMO licensing application process accessible here. For Kamma users, we offer a licence application service for Portsmouth. Get in touch with us here to find out more.
How much does a licence cost?
Mandatory fee: £1,100 with increasing costs for occupants over five. A full breakdown can be found on Portsmouth council’s fee page.
Additional fee: £776
These fees are subject to change and are accurate as of August 2024.
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What happens if I don't get a licence in Portsmouth?
Ignoring the law could result in prosecution by Portsmouth City 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 Portsmouth City council planning on introducing any new licensing schemes?
As of now, Portsmouth City Council is not currently consulting on or planning to introduce any new licensing schemes.
Why has additional licensing in Portsmouth been introduced?
Portsmouth City Council introduced an additional licensing scheme for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) to improve property management and housing conditions. The scheme targets a broader range of HMOs not covered by mandatory licensing, addressing significant health and safety hazards identified in many properties. The initiative is part of the city’s strategy to enhance housing standards, protect tenants, support responsible landlords, and tackle rogue landlords, ultimately ensuring safe and well-maintained accommodations across Portsmouth.
What are the HMO standards to obtain a licence in Portsmouth?
In Portsmouth, Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) are required to meet specific standards to ensure safety and quality living conditions. All bedrooms in HMOs must have direct ventilation and adequate lighting. Minimum space standards dictate that a single bedroom must be at least 6.51 square metres, while a double must be 10.22 square metres. Communal areas should be adequately sized and equipped for the number of occupants, including kitchens, which must have suitable cooking and storage facilities. Bathrooms and toilets must provide constant hot and cold water, be well-ventilated, and comply with size and layout regulations. Fire safety standards include smoke alarms and fire doors, depending on the building’s risk level and size. Proper heating must be available and controllable by the occupants, with specific requirements to prevent hazards like excess cold. Additionally, landlords must ensure appropriate waste disposal facilities and provide tenants with information on recycling and waste management
What do I need to apply for a HMO licence in Portsmouth?
To apply for a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) licence in Portsmouth, you need to submit a detailed application with a floor plan showing room sizes, usage labels, and the locations of safety features like smoke detectors and fire blankets. A current fire risk assessment (FRA) is required, but if unavailable, a one-year licence may be issued with a condition to obtain one. You must provide current safety certificates, including a gas safety certificate (if applicable), an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), fire alarm and emergency lighting test certificates, and a Portable Appliance Test (PAT) certificate for landlord-supplied appliances. For a five-year licence, optional documents include an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) and proof of accreditation from a recognized body. Applicants must be “fit and proper,” without a history of serious criminal offences or housing law violations, and must sign a declaration as part of the application process.
About Portsmouth
Portsmouth is a historic city and unitary authority in Hampshire, England, located on Portsea Island between Portsmouth Harbour and Langstone Harbour. Known for its significant naval base, Portsmouth has a maritime history that dates back to 1194 when King Richard I established it due to its strategic location. The Royal Dockyard, a major employer since 1496, expanded over the centuries and now includes extensive facilities. Although the city was heavily bombed during World War II, it was extensively rebuilt post-war. Portsmouth is a popular tourist destination, with attractions like HMS Victory, HMS Warrior, and the Mary Rose in its dockyard, as well as Southsea Castle and Charles Dickens’ birthplace. Tourism, shipbuilding, and aircraft engineering are key economic sectors. Covering 15 square miles, Portsmouth had a population of 205,056 in 2011.
