Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO)

A House in multiple occupation (HMO) is defined as a building, or part of a building (for example, a flat) which:

• more than one household lives in and shares an amenity, such as a bathroom, toilet or cooking facilities
• is a converted building where more than one household lives and doesn't entirely comprise self-contained flats (whether or not there is also a sharing or lack of amenities), or
• comprises entirely of converted self-contained flats and the standard of conversion does not meet, at a minimum, that required by the 1991 Building Regulations and more than one third of the flats are occupied under short tenancies, (known as Section 257 HMOs).

And is 'occupied' by more than one household:

• as their only or main residence
• as a refuge by persons escaping domestic violence
• during term time by students, or
• for any other purpose as is prescribed in the regulations.

And the households comprise:

• families (including single persons and co-habiting couples (whether or not of the opposite sex); or
• any other relationship that may be prescribed by regulations, such as domestic staff or fostering or carer arrangements.

Apply for a HMO licence

You need a licence to rent out certain HMOs. Apply for a licence by downloading and completing the form below:

Submit your completed form using the button below.

When you submit your application form you will receive a receipt of payment. This is also proof that your application form has been received. When the application form has been checked to ensure that it has been completed correctly you will then receive a further email notifying you of this.

Submit your form here

HMO Fees & Charges 2025-2026

HMO Five Year Licence 5 Persons =£843

HMO Five Year Licence 6 to 10 Persons= £1,162

HMO Five Year Licence 11 to 15 Persons = £1,492

HMO Five Year Licence 16 and above Persons =£1,810

HMO One Year Licence 5 Persons = £403

HMO One Year Licence 6 to 10 Persons = £499

HMO One Year Licence 11 to 15 Persons =£598

HMO One Year Licence 16 and above =  £704

Accommodation certificate (validation certificate) = full cost recovery

Enforcement under Part 1 Housing Act= Full cost recovery

You will also be responsible for council tax. To ensure that the Council can send accurate council tax bills quickly, tell us about tenancy changes by telephone 0151 443 4476 or email local.taxation@knowsley.gov.uk

You are advised to establish lawful use of your premises under planning legislation.  It is also advisable to contact the Council's Planning and Building Control departments for advice.  Planning and development | Knowsley Council