Key finding: Borough-wide additional HMO licensing began on 25 September 2026. Verify the exact property, exemptions, any future scheme amendments and planning status before acting.
What are the local licensing rules?
Qualifying HMOs with three or four occupiers require additional licensing; mandatory HMO licensing generally applies to HMOs with five or more occupiers from more than one household.
| Smaller HMO test | 3–4 people forming at least two households in a qualifying HMO |
|---|---|
| Additional scheme start | 2026-09-25 |
| Scheme end | Check the current council designation |
| Area / boundaries | Borough-wide additional HMO licensing. Separate selective licensing has an area-based designation; do not assume selective licensing is borough-wide. |
| Licence fees | See Croydon Council’s current fee schedule; the payable amount depends on application details. |
Article 4 and planning restrictions
Article 4 planning position is property-specific and is not established by this licensing record.
Planning controls and licensing requirements are different regimes: qualifying for a licence does not establish planning permission, and planning permission does not replace a licence.
What should a landlord do?
- Confirm the property's council and its current licensing designation.
- Check occupants, households, facilities and any statutory exemptions.
- Inspect the official planning map and verify the exact address with the council.
- Check the current application fee, conditions, renewal deadline and any supporting documents.
Check exclusions, licence status and planning separately before operating or converting a property.
Primary sources
Research snapshot 2026-10-13. This page is an independent summary, not official council advice or a substitute for a property-specific determination.