Landlord Guide
Hackney HMO & Selective Licensing: What Landlords Need to Know
Last updated: February 2025
If you let a property in Hackney, there’s a good chance it needs a licence. The borough runs some of the most extensive licensing schemes in London, and letting without the right licence can be costly. Here’s a plain-English overview of the three schemes, who they affect and what to do next.
The three schemes
Mandatory HMO Licensing
Larger HMOs let to 5 or more people forming 2+ households who share a kitchen, bathroom or toilet.
Applies England-wide, regardless of the number of storeys.
Additional HMO Licensing
Smaller HMOs — typically 3–4 people in 2+ households sharing facilities — under Hackney’s borough-wide scheme.
Covers house shares that fall below the mandatory threshold.
Selective Licensing
Most privately rented homes (including single households) let within designated wards.
Applies to specific wards — always confirm your ward is included.
Do I need a licence?
Answer a couple of quick questions for a rough indication.
Is the property let to 5 or more people from 2+ households who share a kitchen or bathroom?
Wards in the selective licensing zone
Selective licensing applies to privately rented homes in designated wards, which have included the following. Boundaries are reviewed periodically, so always confirm your ward is currently covered:
Fees & discounts
Licence fees are usually split into two parts — an application fee (Part A) and a grant fee (Part B). Hackney offers discounts that can meaningfully reduce the cost:
- EPC A–C discount — a reduced fee for energy-efficient properties rated A to C.
- Accredited landlord discount — for members of recognised accreditation schemes (e.g. the London Landlord Accreditation Scheme).
- Early-application savings — applying before a deadline or renewing on time can avoid higher fees.
Exact fee amounts change periodically — confirm the current figures on Hackney Council’s website before you apply.
Penalties for letting unlicensed
- Civil penalties of up to £30,000 per offence, or prosecution and an unlimited fine.
- Rent Repayment Orders reclaiming up to 12 months’ rent.
- Inability to serve a valid Section 21 (no-fault) eviction notice.
- Risk of a banning order for repeat or serious breaches.
Frequently asked questions
This guide is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Licensing schemes, ward boundaries and fees change over time — last reviewed February 2025. Always confirm the current position with the London Borough of Hackney, or ask New Space to check for you.
Not sure if your property needs a licence?
Our team knows Hackney’s schemes inside out. We’ll check your property and help you stay compliant.
Back to landlord services