Brent licenses almost every privately rented home. HMOs with three or more sharers have needed a licence since 2 February 2026, and single-household lets need a selective licence everywhere in the borough except Wembley Park.
Licensing in Brent
| Licence | Who needs it | Since |
|---|---|---|
| Mandatory HMO | Five or more people from two or more households | National rule |
| Additional HMO | Three or four people from two or more households, plus certain converted buildings and HMOs in purpose-built blocks | 2 February 2026 |
| Selective | Single-household lets in Harlesden & Kensal Green, Dollis Hill and Willesden Green | 1 August 2023 |
| Selective | Single-household lets in the other 18 wards, excluding Wembley Park | 1 April 2024 |
Source: Brent Council property licensing guide. Each designation runs for five years.
What it costs
A new mandatory or additional HMO licence in Brent costs £1,040 plus £25 for each habitable room over five, and a renewal £940 plus £25 per extra room, paid in two parts. Council fees are paid by the landlord at cost. Letting without a licence risks a civil penalty, and Brent inspects every licensed property.
What we do for Brent landlords
- Confirm which licence your property needs and handle the application
- Prepare for the council's inspection and meet the licence conditions
- Find and reference tenants, collect rent and keep certificates in date
- Handle repairs through vetted contractors, with no mark-up
See our HMO management and lettings management services, and our fees.