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Property Licensing Guide for Barnet – Additional Licensing Support

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.

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Barnet Property Licensing Schemes

Got questions about licensing schemes in Barnet? We’re here to help. This free guide will tell you the key details regarding what licensing requirements are necessary in Barnet, 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.

Haringey Property Licensing

What are the licensing requirements for Barnet? 

Mandatory licensing in Barnet

Mandatory licensing is required in Barnet 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 Barnet? 

Additional licensing expands the scope of regulation to smaller HMO’s, requiring that all HMO’s with three or more people from one or more households must obtain a licence. These schemes are implemented at the council’s discretion. 

Barnet council currently operates one additional licensing scheme, covering the entire borough. The scheme runs from 27th October 2022 until 26th October 2027.

Do I need a selective licence in Barnet?

Selective licensing requires that all privately rented properties in a given area must obtain a licence, regardless of the number of occupants or households formed. 

Barnet council consulted on the introduction of a selective licensing scheme in 2023, but it has yet to be made official. Check back on this page to find out about any updates as they come. 

How do I apply for a licence?

Barnet Council has an online HMO licensing application process accessible here. For Kamma users, we offer a licence application service for Barnet. Get in touch with us here to find out more.

How much does a property licence in Barnet cost?

£1,512 (mandatory and additional) for properties of up to five occupants. 

£30 for each extra unit of accommodation over five.

These fees are subject to change and are accurate as of October 2024.

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Kamma uses data-driven technology to help landlords and lettings agents deal with complex licensing compliance effortlessly. Find out how Kamma’s software can keep you compliant across your portfolio.

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What happens if I don't get a licence in Barnet?

Ignoring the law could result in prosecution by Barnet 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 Barnet 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 Barnet council planning on introducing any new licensing schemes?

Barnet council consulted on a selective licensing scheme in 2023, with results of the decision yet to be confirmed.

Why did Barnet council consult on the introduction of a new selective licensing scheme?

Barnet Council consulted on introducing a selective licensing scheme to address key challenges in the private rented sector. The consultation revealed that many respondents were concerned about poor housing conditions, high heating costs, and a lack of energy efficiency in rented properties.

There were also significant issues with damp, mould, and overcrowding, which impacted residents’ health. The council aims to ensure that rented homes are safe, well-managed, and compliant with standards.

The proposed scheme targets ten additional wards, focusing on areas with prevalent poor-quality housing and antisocial behaviour. The licensing fees are intended to cover the costs of administration and compliance monitoring. This consultation follows the successful implementation of a similar scheme in three wards in Barnet, reflecting the council’s strategic approach to improving housing standards across a broader area

Why did Barnet council introduce additional licensing?

Barnet Council introduced additional licensing to address the persistent issues with Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) that were not adequately covered by mandatory licensing schemes. The previous scheme highlighted significant problems with compliance, as a large number of licensable properties failed to obtain the necessary licences. With nearly 77% of licensed HMOs requiring major conditions to meet the required standards, it became clear that further action was needed. The additional licensing aims to improve housing conditions, enhance safety, and ensure that landlords manage properties effectively. The council recognized that enforcement of the previous scheme was hindered by the pandemic but plans to employ a more targeted and data-driven approach in the new scheme, including robust analysis and enforcement mechanisms to identify unlicensed properties and poor management practices

Brent Property Licensing

About Barnet

Barnet is a large suburban borough in North London, known for its diverse communities, green spaces, and historic landmarks. It is one of London’s largest boroughs by population and covers a wide area stretching from the bustling suburban towns of Finchley and Hendon to quieter, more rural villages like Totteridge. The area is characterised by a mix of residential neighbourhoods, parks, and nature reserves, such as the iconic Hampstead Heath Extension and Trent Park.

Barnet is also home to several notable cultural and educational institutions, including Middlesex University. With excellent transport links to central London and a range of shopping and leisure amenities, Barnet offers a blend of urban convenience and suburban tranquillity, attracting families, students, and professionals alike.