To ensure properties are managed responsibly, we need to confirm the licence holder is the right person. This is usually the property owner, a manager employed by the owner, or the person who receives rent.

The licence holder must be able to:

• Let and end tenancies
• Access all parts of the property as much as the owner would

If someone other than the licence holder manages the property, their responsibilities must be clearly defined. Otherwise, the licence holder will be responsible for meeting all licence conditions.

Important Information for Applicants:

• Non-UK Residents: Applications will only be accepted if the managing agent is based in the UK and agrees to the licence conditions.
• Limited Companies: Companies must have a UK-registered office, and the licence will be issued in the company’s name.

If LBBD is your freeholder, you’ll need permission from Leasehold Services before letting your property. Contact leasehold@lbbd.gov.uk for more information. Properties owned by LBBD are generally not granted permission to operate as Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs).

If you’re applying for an HMO licence, it’s your responsibility to confirm whether your property requires planning permission. An HMO licence does not automatically grant planning approval. Contact our Planning Department or seek independent legal advice if you’re unsure. Failure to secure the necessary planning permission may result in enforcement action, even if a licence has been granted.

Getting started is easy. You’ll need to create a landlord user account and provide some basic details. Make sure you’re prepared with the right information and documents before you begin.

Checklist of Information You’ll Need

Before starting your application, have the following details ready:

• Property details: Room sizes, bathroom and kitchen facilities, and a floor plan showing the layout.
• Safety measures: Property structure and safety equipment details
• Contact details: Freeholders, leaseholders, managing agents, or mortgage providers
• Payment details: Card information to pay the application fee
• Licence holder’s date of birth

Documents You’ll Need to Upload

You’ll also need valid and up-to-date copies of the following:

• Tenancy agreements
• Energy Performance Certificate
• Electrical Installation Condition Report
• Gas Safety Certificate (if applicable)
• Proof of Accreditation Membership (if relevant)
• Fire Alarm and Emergency Lighting Certificates (HMOs only, if required)
• Fire risk assessments (HMOs only)

Accessibility Support

We do not offer paper applications. If you need assistance due to accessibility needs, please email PRPL@lbbd.gov.ukand we’ll be happy to help.

Once you’ve submitted your application, we’ll begin checks to ensure you meet the licensing requirements. This includes assessing your suitability, verifying documents, and inspecting your property.

Fit and Proper Checks

We’ll assess whether the applicant is suitable to hold a licence. This includes reviewing any evidence of:

• Convictions for fraud, violence, drugs, or sexual offences
• Discrimination based on sex, race, disability, or ethnicity
• Breaches of housing or landlord/tenant laws

Applicants must also demonstrate that satisfactory management and financial arrangements are in place for the property.

Certification and Compliance Checks

We’ll verify the documentation you’ve submitted. If your application is incomplete, you’ll have two months to provide the missing information upon request. Failure to do so will result in rejection, requiring a new application and repayment of the Part A fee.

Non-compliant documentation may lead to a reduced-term licence being issued.

Property Inspections

Before a licence is granted, we’ll inspect your property to ensure it meets safety standards. Typically, inspections:

• Last 20 minutes to 1 hour
• Are scheduled with the tenant, landlord, or representative
• Include photo documentation of concerns
• Result in a report shared with the landlord

Rewarding Compliance

Landlords who operate safe and well-managed properties may qualify for a compliance award discount. Visit our Fees, Discounts, and Exemptions page for tips on maximising your chances of receiving a discount.

Once all checks are complete, we’ll make a decision about your licence. If you disagree with the outcome, you can appeal.

Licensing Decisions

We’ll grant a licence if:

• The property is suitable for occupation or can be made suitable
• The applicant and any manager are fit and proper persons
• Management arrangements are satisfactory

Appeals Process

Before a final licence is issued, there’s a 21-day consultation period for representations.

If you disagree with our decision, you may appeal to the First-Tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) within 28 days. Visit the First-Tier Tribunal website or call 020 7446 7700 for further information.