Portsmouth landlords need to check local HMO licensing rules even when a shared property houses fewer than five people. The council's additional licensing scheme has operated since 1 September 2023, so the national threshold for mandatory licensing is not the only test that matters in the city.
This guide updates an archive report about the scheme's introduction. It does not repeat the old report's prosecution figures as new enforcement news.
Check the actual occupation
Portsmouth City Council explains that mandatory licensing covers HMOs occupied by at least five people forming more than one household. Its additional scheme brings smaller HMOs within local licensing requirements. A landlord with several properties needs a separate licence for each property that requires one.
Converted buildings can raise different questions. The council describes specific rules for section 257 buildings and exceptions, so owners should seek confirmation for their particular layout and occupancy rather than assume every converted flat follows the same route.
Planning is a separate check
The council's planning guidance says a new HMO needs both planning permission and a housing licence. These decisions serve different purposes. Planning considers the proposed use against local policies, while licensing examines the property and its management. Approval through one process does not remove the need to address the other.
Portsmouth's Article 4 direction means an owner cannot simply assume that the usual permitted change from a family house to a small HMO is available. The council also warns that switching a Class C4 property to family occupation can affect the permission needed to return it to HMO use.
A practical file for each property
Before buying, advertising or changing occupancy, assemble the existing licence, planning decision, floor plans and occupancy information. Compare the proposed arrangement with both approvals and ask the relevant council team about any discrepancy. Record renewal dates and responsibility for submitting applications in the management agreement.
A public register can help with initial checks, but an investor should resolve gaps with the council instead of treating an incomplete search result as proof of compliance.
Sources: Portsmouth City Council, About HMO licences; HMO planning permission and licensing requirements. Checked 6 November 2026. Property-specific advice may be needed.