Harrow Property Licensing Schemes
Got questions about licensing schemes in Harrow? We’re here to help. This free guide will provide you with the key details regarding what licensing requirements are necessary in Ealing 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 Harrow?
Mandatory licensing in Harrow
Mandatory licensing is required in Harrow 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 Harrow?
Additional licensing requires that all smaller HMOs in a given area must obtain a licence. A smaller HMO is defined as a privately rented property with three or more people forming more than one household.
Harrow council currently operates one additional licensing scheme. The scheme runs from the 6th August 2021 until 5th August 2026.
Additional licensing in Harrow is required for properties that have been converted into self-contained flats when they do not comply with Building Regulations from 1991 or later. This applies if:
- The building has three or more storeys.
- It contains at least three flats.
- All the flats are privately rented.
- The building and the flats are managed or owned by the same entity.
Do I need a selective licence in Harrow?
Selective licensing requires that all privately rented properties in a given area designated by the council must obtain a licence.
Harrow council currently operates two selective licensing schemes. The details are as follows:
Selective licensing scheme one: Runs from 28th April 2021 until 27th April 2026, covering the ward of Edgware
Selective licensing scheme two: Runs from 2nd September 2021 until 1st September 2026, covering the entirety of Wealdstone North, and parts of Harrow Weald and Wealdstone South
How do I apply for a licence?
Harrow Council has an online HMO licensing application process accessible here. For Kamma users, we offer a licence application service for Ealing. Get in touch with us here to find out more.
How much does a license cost?
Mandatory/Additional licence: £1,740
Section 257 Additional licence: £360
Selective licence: £720
These fees are subject to change and are accurate as of September 2024.
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Licensing Enforcement in Harrow
Harrow Council has demonstrated strict enforcement of licensing regulations by issuing significant penalties to landlords who violate housing laws. In a notable case, a rogue landlord was fined £485,000 for illegally converting and renting out large sheds as flats, which lacked the appropriate licences and failed to meet basic housing standards. The properties were overcrowded and unsafe, violating fire safety regulations and other health and safety standards. This case highlights the council’s commitment to ensuring landlords provide safe, legal accommodations, with substantial fines like this serving as a strong deterrent for future violations.
What happens if I don't get a licence in Harrow?
Ignoring the law could result in prosecution by Harrow 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 Harrow council planning on introducing any new licensing schemes?
As of now, Harrow Council is not currently consulting on or planning to introduce any new licensing schemes,
Why did Harrow Council introduce additional licensing?
Harrow Council introduced additional licensing for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) to address ongoing issues such as overcrowding, disrepair, anti-social behaviour, and fire safety risks, as well as the significant management deficiencies found in 95% of licensed HMOs. With a growing population and an increasing reliance on private rentals (30% of housing stock by 2017), the council aimed to regulate smaller HMOs not covered by mandatory licensing. The scheme also sought to protect vulnerable tenants living in high-risk properties and ensure landlords maintain essential safety and living standards.
Why did Harrow Council introduce selective licensing?
Harrow Council introduced selective licensing in response to significant issues related to anti-social behaviour, crime, and poor housing conditions, particularly in areas like Wealdstone. The council identified numerous complaints about overcrowded properties, subletting, overflowing bins, noise, and property damage, which were commonly associated with rented properties. Selective licensing was seen as a tool to hold landlords accountable for the management of their properties and ensure that they take responsibility for tenant behaviour and property standards. The scheme aimed to improve living conditions, reduce environmental problems, and promote safer communities
What are the conditions to obtain a HMO licence in Harrow?
Harrow’s HMO regulations, as outlined in their licensing standards, aim to ensure safe and well-maintained accommodations for tenants. The regulations require that all Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) meet minimum space and amenity standards, including proper room sizes and shared facilities like kitchens and bathrooms. Safety measures are a priority, with strict guidelines on fire safety, such as the installation of smoke alarms, fire doors, and escape routes. Landlords must also ensure electrical and gas safety, provide secure access, manage waste effectively, and address any pest issues promptly. Additionally, landlords are responsible for managing tenant behaviour, addressing anti-social behaviour, and keeping the property in good repair. Non-compliance with these standards can lead to fines, penalties, or the revocation of the HMO licence.

About Harrow
Harrow is an outer borough of London, situated on the northwestern edge of the city. Historically part of Middlesex, it became a London borough in 1965. Harrow features a mix of suburban areas, including Pinner, Stanmore, and Wealdstone, and is home to landmarks such as the mediaeval Church of St. Mary and the prestigious Harrow School. The borough has a rich history, with Saxon earthworks like Grim’s Dyke and Bentley Priory, which played a key role in World War II. Today, Harrow serves as a major shopping and residential area, covering 19 square miles (50 square km) with a population of 239,056 as of 2011.