Licence exemptions

Exemptions

There are exemptions to the requirement to be licensed and these are contained in schedule 14 of the Housing Act 2004. In Brief these include properties which are

• controlled or managed by a Local Housing Authority
• controlled or managed by registered social landlords and housing providers
• controlled and managed by police
• controlled and managed by fire brigade
• controlled and managed by Health Service Body
• regulated by other enactments
• occupied by religious communities (except section 257 HMOs)
• occupied by two persons who form two households unless in the selective licensing designated wards

Please check if the property is exempted before making an application. See lists of exemptions.

In some circumstances a temporary exemption from licensing can be granted. Temporary exemptions are only granted for three months.

Temporary exemptions

The landlord must tell the council if the property no longer requires a licence. For example:

• if they are selling it into owner-occupation
• if tenants have given notice (of their own accord) to vacate the property.

If the property is currently vacant or owner-occupied, and the landlord intends to keep it that way, then a temporary exemption is not required.

Please read our guidance to see if you are able to make an application for a temporary exemption.

 Apply for a Temporary Exemption Notice