TenancyVault

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Some letting situations come with extra rules — HMOs have licensing and management requirements, selective licensing schemes apply in certain areas, and lodger arrangements differ from standard tenancies. These guides explain the rules for each.

HMO licensing — When you need a licence and how to apply

England landlord guide to HMO licensing — mandatory licensing thresholds, how to apply, what councils assess, and the penalties for operating without a licence.

Reviewed: Mar 2026

HMO management rules and safety standards

What England HMO landlords must do to comply with the Management of HMOs Regulations — fire safety, common areas, facilities, and ongoing maintenance obligations.

Reviewed: Mar 2026

HMOs — What counts as a House in Multiple Occupation

How to tell if your England rental property is a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) — the definition, why it matters, and when licensing is required.

Reviewed: Mar 2026

Letting a room to a lodger — How it differs from a tenancy

The key legal differences between taking in a lodger and granting a tenancy in England — what rights lodgers have and what landlords need to do differently.

Reviewed: Mar 2026

Regulated tenancies and fair rents — What landlords need to know

What England landlords need to know about regulated tenancies under the Rent Act 1977 — who is protected, how fair rents are set, and what landlords can and cannot do.

Reviewed: Mar 2026

Rent a Room scheme — Basics for landlords

How the government's Rent a Room Scheme works for England landlords — the tax-free threshold, who can use it, and what it means for your tax return.

Reviewed: Mar 2026

Selective licensing and additional licensing — What landlords need to know

What England landlords need to know about selective licensing schemes and additional HMO licensing — how to check if your area has a scheme and how to apply.

Reviewed: Mar 2026

All guides cover England only. TenancyVault does not provide legal advice.