HMO Licensing and Shared Housing Rules in Adur
Tenants and landlords in Adur are covered by the same statutory framework as the rest of England regarding Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) and shared housing rules. This guide covers what tenants need to know about mandatory licensing requirements. Selective or additional schemes run by local councils, and key changes introduced by recent legislation. Understanding these rules is important for ensuring that both parties comply with legal obligations and maintain a safe living environment.
As of 2026, the Renters' Rights Act 2025 has brought significant changes to how HMOs are regulated in Adur and across England. These changes aim to protect tenants further by enhancing safety standards and addressing issues such as overcrowding and poor maintenance. Tenants should familiarise themselves with these updates to ensure their rights are upheld.
What the Law Says
The primary legislation governing HMO licensing is the Housing Act 2004, which established a statutory requirement for landlords of certain properties to obtain a licence from Adur council. This includes properties that house five or more people who form two or more households and share basic amenities like kitchen facilities and bathrooms. The specific sections relevant here are Section 157 (licensing requirements) and Section 209 (penalties for non-compliance).
the Renters' Rights Act 2025 has expanded on this framework by introducing stricter penalties for unlicensed HMOs and enhanced protections for tenants living in such properties. The act aims to ensure that all shared housing environments meet minimum safety standards.
How the Renters' Rights Act 2025 Changes This
The Renters' Rights Act 2025 has introduced several significant changes, including mandatory licensing thresholds for HMOs and increased penalties for non-compliance. Under this act, Adur council may operate selective or additional licensing schemes to address specific issues within the district.
Selective licensing allows councils to require licences in areas where there's a high concentration of rented properties or known problems with housing conditions. Additional licensing covers all properties in an area regardless of whether they're currently licensed under mandatory rules. Both schemes can impose stricter requirements on landlords and provide greater protection for tenants.
What This Means for Tenants in Adur
In Adur, as elsewhere in England, HMOs typically require a licence if there are five or more unrelated sharers living in the property who share basic amenities. Landlords must apply for this licence with Adur council before renting out such properties. If your landlord is operating an unlicensed HMO, you may be at risk of unsafe conditions and lack of legal protections.
Tenants should also be aware that some councils operate selective or additional licensing schemes in certain areas. These can impose further obligations on landlords, including requirements for regular inspections and adherence to stricter health and safety standards.
Your Next Steps if You Need Help in Adur
If you suspect an HMO is operating without the necessary licence in Adur, your first step should be contacting the council's environmental health team or housing department. Gather evidence such as photos or videos showing unsafe conditions, poor amenities, or overcrowding. Provide this to Adur officials along with any documentation of complaints or issues.
For free advice and support, you can contact Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB), Shelter, or directly approach Adur council's housing team. These organisations can provide guidance on your rights and help you understand the next steps in resolving HMO licensing issues.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Tenants often make common errors like assuming a property is legally compliant without evidence or failing to report unsafe conditions promptly. Landlords may overlook the necessity of obtaining an HMO licence if they're unaware of the threshold for mandatory licensing.
To avoid these mistakes, tenants should always verify whether their landlord has obtained the required licences and ensure that shared housing meets minimum safety standards. Landlords must apply for HMO licensing well before renting out a property to avoid penalties and legal issues.
When to Get Professional Advice
If you believe your situation is complex or involves significant risks to your health and safety, it may be wise to consult with a regulated solicitor who specialises in housing law. However, many tenants find that free advice services like Shelter or CAB can provide sufficient guidance for most HMO licensing issues.
To find professional help, start by contacting the Law Society's website or legal aid organisations that work specifically on housing cases. Always check with a solicitor to confirm your specific rights and obligations before taking further action.
