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Property Licensing Guide for Leicester
Leicester currently operates selective licensing in 6 wards; mandatory HMO licensing applies everywhere. Last checked: 3 July 2026.
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.
New to this? Read our overview: What is selective licensing?
Leicester Property Licensing Schemes
Got questions about licensing schemes in Leicester? We’re here to help. This free guide will provide you with the key details regarding what licensing requirements are necessary in Leicester 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 Leicester?
Mandatory licensing in Leicester
Mandatory HMO licensing applies across Leicester (and all of England) to larger HMOs — properties occupied by five or more people forming 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 Leicester?
Additional licensing requires smaller HMOs in a designated area to be licensed — a privately rented property with three or more people forming more than one household.
Leicester does not currently operate an additional HMO licensing scheme; larger HMOs are covered by the national mandatory HMO scheme.
Do I need a selective licence in Leicester?
Selective licensing requires almost all privately rented properties in a designated area to be licensed, regardless of the number of occupants.
Leicester operates selective licensing — the current designation is set out below.
Selective licensing: 10 October 2022 to 9 October 2027 — covering Braunstone Park & Rowley Fields, Fosse, Saffron, Spinney Hills, Stoneygate and Westcotes.
Selective licensing: 29 December 2022 to 9 October 2027 — covering Fosse, Stoneygate and Westcotes.
Mandatory HMO licensing: in force since 2006 for HMOs of five or more people forming more than one household.
How do I apply for a licence?
You can apply for a licence via Leicester Council’s website here. Or let Kamma’s expert team process the application for you.
How much does a license cost?
Selective licence fee: £1,290 (£1,032 on application, £258 on issue).
HMO licence fees: see the council’s licensing pages linked above.
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Leicester Property Licensing FAQs
What licensing schemes does Leicester operate?
Leicester operates selective licensing (10 October 2022 to 9 October 2027), alongside the national mandatory HMO scheme. See the scheme details above.
Do all properties in Leicester need a licence?
It depends on the scheme and your property. Where selective licensing applies, most privately rented homes need a licence; HMOs fall under mandatory or additional licensing depending on size and occupancy.What if my property doesn't have a licence?
Operating an unlicensed property that requires a licence can bring civil penalties of up to £40,000 per property, rent repayment orders of up to 24 months, and being unable to serve a Section 21 notice. Letting agents can be held jointly liable.Can letting agents apply on behalf of landlords?
Yes. Letting agents can apply for property licences on behalf of landlords in Leicester, and many manage the full process.
How do I apply for a Leicester property licence?
You can apply through Leicester Council’s website (licensing pages), or use a managed service such as Kamma.
How long does an application take?
Processing times vary with the council’s workload and the quality of the application. A complete, correctly prepared application is processed fastest.
Why did Leicester introduce selective licensing?
Selective licensing is used to improve housing conditions and tackle anti-social behaviour in the private rented sector.
Why did Leicester introduce additional licensing?
Additional HMO licensing addresses overcrowding, disrepair and management standards in smaller HMOs not covered by the national mandatory scheme.
What are the conditions to obtain an HMO licence in Leicester?
The council’s HMO licence conditions set standards for fire safety, amenities, room sizes and management (licence conditions).
About Leicester
Leicester is a vibrant city in the East Midlands, known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and thriving economy. As one of the UK’s oldest cities, it boasts historical landmarks like Leicester Cathedral and the King Richard III Visitor Centre. The city is also a hub for education, home to two major universities, and offers a bustling mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment. With a strong sporting tradition, including the success of Leicester City Football Club, the city combines modern development with a deep connection to its heritage.
Licensing Enforcement in Leicester
Leicester Council enforces property licensing across its schemes. Letting a property without the required licence risks prosecution, civil penalties of up to £40,000 per property, and rent repayment orders of up to 24 months — with letting agents jointly liable alongside landlords.
