Exemptions to the mandatory licensing scheme include:
- properties that meet the converted block of flats test (called ‘section 257 HMOs’), unless the individual flats meet the mandatory test, for example, that the flat is multiply let to five or more persons in two or more households
- flats in multiple occupation in a purpose-built block of flats that house three or more flats
- properties let by us or a registered provider (RP), commonly known as a not-for-profit housing association
- properties already under a management order or empty dwelling management order
- properties under a temporary exemption notice
- owners who live in a property they own as their main residence (owner-occupiers)
- holiday lets and tenancies under a long lease and business tenancies
- a house in multiple occupation (HMO) that is managed by a registered charity and which is:
- a night shelter
- temporary housing for people suffering from drug or alcohol abuse, or a mental disorder
- a building that a religious community primarily uses for prayer, contemplation, education or helping the suffering.
- student accommodation managed by educational institutions, for example halls of residence
- single family dwellings occupied by one household
- homes with up to two lodgers
