HMO licence applications in Longton

Need help with HMO licence application in Longton? We check the rules that apply at the address and prepare what Stoke-on-Trent City Council asks for.

Tell us about the property in Longton and we'll arrange a free survey at a time that suits you.

  • Free survey and fixed written quote
  • One team for build, compliance and lettings
  • Designed around Stoke-on-Trent City Council's HMO standards

Get a quote for Longton

Tell us about the property. We reply within one working day.

HMO projects in Longton are shaped by the rules of Stoke-on-Trent City Council. Before we price anything, we check whether the address falls within an additional licensing scheme or an Article 4 direction, because both change what the house needs and how long it takes.

Work is carried out by S&K and vetted subcontractors working under S&K's supervision, so you contract with one company for the whole project.

HMO rules in Stoke-on-Trent City Council

RuleStoke-on-Trent City Council
Mandatory HMO licence (5+ people)In force everywhere in England
Additional HMO licensingProposed
A citywide scheme was proposed in August 2026, subject to consultation
Selective licensingNot confirmed
Article 4 direction for small HMOsIn force
Whole city, immediate direction from 23 October 2026. It lapses unless the council confirms it within six months

Checked October 2026 against Stoke-on-Trent City Council's HMO licensing page. Schemes change, so we confirm the position for your address before any work starts.

Stoke-on-Trent City Council has an Article 4 direction across its whole area, so turning a family house in Longton into a small HMO needs planning permission. This is an immediate direction that took effect on 23 October 2026 and lapses unless the council confirms it within six months. We check the planning history of the address as part of any licence work. Seven or more occupants always needs planning permission. Stoke-on-Trent City Council proposed a citywide additional licensing scheme in August 2026, subject to consultation, so smaller HMOs may need a licence in future.

HMO licence applications in Longton: what we do

Licensing rules for shared houses in Longton depend on the exact address. Mandatory licensing applies to every HMO with 5 or more occupiers, but additional or selective schemes can bring smaller houses into licensing too. We check which applies before preparing anything, so the application matches the scheme.

For landlords in Longton and across Staffordshire, we prepare the floor plan, collect the certificates and complete the council's form. We follow the application through to a decision, help with any draft conditions and keep a note of the renewal date.

  • Gas, electrical, alarm and lighting certificates collated
  • Help with draft conditions, renewals and variations
  • Measured floor plan in the council's usual format
  • Licence holder, manager and fit and proper details prepared
  • Council application form completed and checked

HMO licence applications near Longton

HMO licence applications in Longton: common questions

What happens if I let an unlicensed HMO in Longton?

Since 1 May 2026 councils can issue civil penalties of up to £40,000, and rent repayment orders can cover up to two years' rent. If a house in Longton needs a licence, apply as soon as possible.

How long does an HMO licence last?

A licence can last up to five years. Stoke-on-Trent City Council may grant a shorter licence, for example where it has concerns about the property or the management.

Who issues HMO licences in Longton?

Stoke-on-Trent City Council is the licensing authority for Longton. We prepare the application and supporting documents, and the council decides whether to grant the licence and on what conditions.

How often are electrical checks needed in an HMO?

Private tenancies in England need an electrical installation condition report before the tenancy starts and at least every five years, and gas appliances need a safety check by a Gas Safe registered engineer every 12 months.

Ready to talk about Longton?

Send us the address and we'll check the licensing and planning position before we talk about prices.

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