As the demand for shared housing continues to rise in Cardiff, Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) have become a vital part of the city’s rental landscape. However, managing an HMO is not just about letting rooms—it comes with legal responsibilities, especially around licensing and safety.
At Arthur & Hamilton, we specialise in navigating the HMO landscape for landlords. Whether you’re converting your first property or managing a portfolio, this guide will help you understand Cardiff’s licensing requirements—and how we can help you stay compliant and profitable.
📋 What is an HMO—and When is a Licence Required?
In Cardiff, an HMO is defined as a property rented to three or more people from different households who share common facilities like kitchens and bathrooms.
There are two main types of licensing:
✅ Mandatory HMO Licensing
You must apply for a licence if your property:
- Is occupied by five or more people, forming two or more households
- Tenants share facilities such as kitchens, bathrooms, or toilets
- 3 storey building
✅ Additional Licensing
Even smaller HMOs (3 or more tenants) in certain wards—such as Cathays and Plasnewydd—may also require a licence under Cardiff’s Additional Licensing Scheme. In these locations, the property only requires to be 2-storeys.
Failing to comply with these licensing laws can lead to significant penalties, rent repayment orders, and even criminal prosecution.
🛠️ What Are the Key Licensing Requirements?
When applying for an HMO licence in Cardiff, landlords must meet a range of health, safety, and management standards, including:
- Fire Safety Measures: Working smoke alarms, fire doors, and clear fire escape routes
- Adequate Facilities: Bathrooms, cooking facilities, and refuse storage that suit the number of tenants
- Room Sizes: Bedrooms must meet minimum space standards set by the council
- Good Management: Properties must be well maintained, with clear responsibilities for repairs and tenant behaviour
You’ll also need to pass a ‘fit and proper person’ test, and renew your licence every five years. Take a look at Cardiff Council’s official website for more information here: https://www.cardiff.gov.uk/ENG/Business/Licences-and-permits/Houses-in-multiple-occupancy/Pages/default.aspx
🧭 How Arthur & Hamilton Supports HMO Landlords
At Arthur & Hamilton, we don’t just manage HMOs—we specialise in them. Our clients trust us to keep their properties compliant, profitable, and hassle-free.
Here’s how we help:
🔍 Property Compliance Audit
We inspect your property and tell you exactly what needs upgrading before you apply.
📑 Licence Application Management
We handle the paperwork, liaise with Cardiff Council, and ensure your licence is submitted accurately and on time.
🔧 Full-Service HMO Management
From tenant screening to rent collection, maintenance, and inspections—we do it all, so you don’t have to.
💼 Investment Advice
Looking to convert a property to an HMO or expand your portfolio? We’ll help you assess potential properties and compliance risks before you invest.
📞 Let’s Talk
If you’re a landlord in Cardiff and want expert help with your HMO property—whether it’s licensing, compliance, or full management—get in touch with us today.
📧 Email: info@arthurandhamilton.com
📞 Call: 020 4538 9330
Arthur & Hamilton – Cardiff’s Trusted HMO Specialists.