HMO Compliance & Licensing Services SouthamptonLocal Compliance, Licensing & Certifications Specialists
At SDM Property, we understand the complexities of managing Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) and are dedicated to ensuring your property remains compliant with all relevant regulations.
Understanding HMOs
An HMO is defined as a property where at least three tenants, forming more than one household, share facilities such as toilets, bathrooms or kitchens. Properties with five or more unrelated occupants require a mandatory HMO licence. Additionally, local councils may enforce selective or additional licensing schemes, potentially affecting properties with fewer tenants.
Our HMO Compliance & Licensing Services in Southampton
We offer a comprehensive suite of services to support landlords in managing HMOs:
- We manage the entire application process on your behalf, ensuring all documentation is accurately completed and submitted promptly.
- We assist in verifying tenants' Right to Rent status and provide guidance on maintaining accurate occupancy records to prevent unauthorised subletting or overcrowding.
- We assist in verifying tenants' Right to Rent status and provide guidance on maintaining accurate occupancy records to prevent unauthorised subletting or overcrowding.
- Regulations can change, and local authorities may update their licensing requirements. We offer continuous monitoring services to keep your property compliant with the latest standards.
Key HMO Compliance Requirementsin Southampton
Health and Safety
Ensuring the health and safety of your tenants is paramount. Our services include:
- Gas Safety
- Electrical Safety
- Fire Safety
Minimum Room Sizes
We ensure that all rooms meet the required dimensions:
- Single occupancy rooms: Minimum of 6.51 square metres.
- Double occupancy rooms: Minimum of 10.22 square metres.
Tenant Checks
Our tenant management support includes:
- Right to Rent Verification: Ensuring all tenants have the legal right to rent in England.
- Occupancy Monitoring: Regular property inspections to confirm authorised occupancy and prevent issues such as unauthorised subletting.
Determining the Need for a Mandatory HMO License in Southampton
As a landlord, it's crucial to ascertain whether your property requires a Mandatory House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) licence. Generally, properties occupied by five or more individuals forming more than one household necessitate such a licence.
Navigating the Licensing Process
While it's feasible to undertake the licensing process independently, it's essential to approach it meticulously. This involves familiarising yourself with national standards and specific guidelines set by your local council. However, managing this process can be complex and time-consuming.
Understanding Local Authority Standards
Local councils often have distinct standards for HMOs, which can vary significantly between jurisdictions. Before applying for a Mandatory HMO licence, it's advisable to understand these specific requirements.
How SDM Property Can Assist
- Expert Guidance: Our team stays updated with the latest regulations and local authority standards to offer accurate advice.
- Application Support: We handle the preparation and submission of your licence application, ensuring all documentation is complete and accurate.
- Compliance Checks: Through our Local Authority Compliance Check, we assess your property's readiness for licensing and recommend necessary improvements.
Benefit from Our HMO Compliance & Licensing Expertise & Experience in Southampton
At SDM Property, we understand that navigating the complexities of House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) compliance and licensing can be challenging for landlords. Our specialised services are designed to streamline this process, offering you peace of mind and ensuring your property meets all regulatory standards.
Some of the Key Benefits of Our HMO Compliance and Licensing Services Include:
- Expert Guidance: Our team stays informed of the latest HMO regulations and local authority requirements, providing you with accurate and up-to-date advice to keep your property compliant.
- Expert Guidance: Our team stays informed of the latest HMO regulations and local authority requirements, providing you with accurate and up-to-date advice to keep your property compliant.
- Risk Mitigation: By ensuring full compliance with HMO regulations, we help you avoid substantial fines, legal actions and potential reputational damage associated with non-compliance.
- Tenant Safety and Satisfaction: We implement and maintain safety measures such as fire safety systems and regular inspections, creating a secure living environment that enhances tenant satisfaction and retention.
- Financial Efficiency: Our services are designed to maximise your rental income by reducing void periods, managing maintenance costs effectively and ensuring your property meets the standards that attract quality tenants.
- Streamlined Operations: Our streamlined processes simplify the complexity of HMO management. By handling all paperwork, correspondence with authorities, and compliance tracking, we free up your time and reduce administrative burdens, making property management smoother and more
Recommended & Trusted HMO Certification & Licensing Services For landlords, HMOs, tenants & sellers
At SDM Property, we can help you navigate the complexities of HMO compliant design, fire safety, licensing and planning permission. Whether you're an independent landlord, investor or business, we have the expertise to assist you, no matter the size of your project.
We can also help you in obtaining all the necessary certification needed for an HMO (House in Multiple Occupancy or House of Multiple Occupation) including:
- Gas Safety Certificate or Commissioning form
- Electrical Safety Certificate or Commissioning form
- Floor Plans
- Fire Detection and Warning System Commissioning or Testing Certificate

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More Reasons To Choose Us
You can rely on our expertise and professionalism when it comes to quality property solutions.
- Qualified & experienced
- Free property valuations
- Fixed Fee estate agents
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- Competitive local pricing
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- Personal & friendly service
- Property maintenance & repairs
- Highly recommended locally
Would highly recommend. Mark gives fast responses, is flexible, helpful and efficient. My family and I are pleased with the professionalism and work.
They lived up to their promises, always get back to you, liaise with you about everything. And they seem very on the ball with regards to their Legal obligations and general Law for renting etc. Highly recommended
The SDM Team made our move very easy from start to finish. We were in the property quickly, paperwork was delivered when we were expecting it. Will definitely recommend them to others. Thank you!
Just moved in, all thanks to Mark and co from SDM Property. Very quick to sign contracts with no hassle. We are very pleased with his service and professionalism. We are very excited to make a house our home. Thanks Mark.
Recently rented a property through SDM. The flat was spotless and the management was great always quick to respond to any issues overall great experience 🙂
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Frequently Asked Questions About HMO Compliance
In England and Wales, a property must have an HMO license if:
- It is rented to five or more people forming more than one household.
- Some or all tenants share toilet, bathroom or kitchen facilities.
Even if your property is smaller and rented to fewer people, you may still need a license depending on the area. We can help determine if your property requires a license.
Our team continuously monitors updates in HMO legislation and local authority requirements. We ensure that your property remains compliant by adapting our services to any regulatory changes.
An HMO (House in Multiple Occupation) is a property rented out by at least three people forming more than one household, sharing facilities like the bathroom and kitchen. If your property meets these criteria, it qualifies as an HMO.
An HMO license is typically valid for up to five years. We monitor license expiry dates and manage the renewal process to ensure continuous compliance.
Yes, HMOs must meet specific safety standards including:
- Annual gas safety inspections.
- Electrical safety checks every five years
- Installation of smoke alarms and fire safety measures.
We coordinate all necessary inspections and certifications to ensure your property meets these standards.
We manage the entire licensing process on your behalf including:
- Preparing and submitting the application.
- Ensuring all necessary documentation and certifications are in place.
- Liaising with local authorities to facilitate a smooth approval process.
Operating an unlicensed HMO can result in significant fines, legal action and potential rent repayment orders. Ensuring your property is properly licensed protects you from these risks.