Date Published 08 August 2025
Hillingdon Council is weighing the introduction of tighter licensing regulations for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), which could soon include smaller shared homes. This move comes amid a significant rise in private renting across the borough over the past decade. According to the 2021 Census, over 25% of homes in Hillingdon are now privately rented — a 7.8% increase since 2011, marking the second-highest growth in London.
Currently, mandatory HMO licensing only applies to larger properties housing five or more individuals from two or more households who share kitchen or bathroom facilities. However, under the council's proposed changes, smaller HMOs with three or four unrelated occupants would also fall under the licensing scheme, significantly expanding its scope.
In a statement, Hillingdon Council said:
'Additional HMO licensing would help ensure properties are safe, well-managed, and equipped with basic facilities for tenants. It would also give the council stronger powers to hold landlords accountable and inspect homes to ensure they meet required standards. Furthermore, it could help tackle anti-social behaviour and waste management issues often associated with unlicensed properties.'
To support the decision-making process, the council is conducting a borough-wide Housing Tenure Survey to assess whether the extended licensing measures are justified under the Housing Act 2004. Should the findings support regulatory changes, a full public consultation is expected to launch this autumn.
A council spokesperson added:
'HMOs are an important housing option for many residents, offering affordability and flexibility. However, there is growing concern about their impact on local communities. Additional licensing would enable us to more effectively scrutinise landlords, safeguarding both tenants and neighbourhoods. Our priority is to ensure that everyone in Hillingdon has access to safe, good-quality housing.'
This potential move follows a broader trend across the region. As reported in our last November update, Reading Borough Council has already extended licensing requirements to properties with three or four occupants. Additionally, selective licensing schemes targeting all privately rented homes in specific areas are being rolled out over time.
As HMO specialists operating throughout Reading and surrounding areas, we are fully prepared to support landlords during this transition. Our team is equipped to ensure your properties remain fully compliant with all evolving regulations — delivering peace of mind and hassle-free management. For more information or personalised support, please contact us or visit our dedicated HMO services page via the tab just above.
