Does my rental home need a property licence? (2024)

Does my rental home need a property licence? (1)

Heading_57209

Some privately rented homes in London need a property licence. If your rented home needs a licence, your landlord is responsible for obtaining it.

Holding the correct property licence is a legal requirement and demonstrates that the property is suitable for occupation and managed to an acceptable standard.

As a tenant, if you're concerned that your landlord might not be complying with their legal obligations, it is worth checking if they have obtained the proper licence. If they haven't, or if you think they're breaching the terms of the licence, you might be entitled to claim some of your rent back.

Before you use the Property Licence Checker

Enter your postcode below to find out whether your privately rented home should have a property licence. Make sure:

  • you are not a council or housing association tenant
  • at least one person in the property pays rent
  • the property is not occupied entirely by the owner and/or members of their family
  • the property is not solely occupied by a resident landlord and up to two lodgers.

Why do I need to know if my rented home needs a licence?

  • If your landlord has served a section 21 notice of possession, this will not be valid if your landlord has failed to apply for or obtain the correct property licence on the date that the notice was served. Section 21 notices are used to begin eviction proceedings.
  • You may be entitled to apply for a Rent Repayment Order for the period in which your home does not have the correct licence. A rent repayment order is a financial award decided by a tribunal, requiring a landlord to pay back up to 12 months' rent to a tenant. Organisations such as Justice for Tenants offer free advise on Rent Repayment Orders.
  • If your landlord has not obtained the correct property licence, they may be subject to enforcement action from your local council

Find out more about your rights as a renter, even if your home doesn't require a property licence.

What is property licensing?

Property licensing helps councils to crack down on rogue landlords. It can protect the health and safety of tenants and improve the quality of privately rented homes.

There are three different types of property licence:

  • mandatory HMO (Houses in Multiple Occupation) licensing - covers most homes shared by 5 or more people, in 2 more households (i.e. where they are not all part of the same family), where some or all tenants share a toilet, bathroom or kitchen.

  • additional HMO licensing - generally covers smaller homes shared by 3 or 4 people in 2 or more households, where some or all tenants share a toilet, bathroom or kitchen.

  • selective licensing - can cover all privately rented properties in a specific area.

What property licensing schemes are there in London?

The map below displays the property licensing schemes currently in place in London.

View the map in full-screen

How can I report an unlicensed property?

If you landlord is renting out a property without the required property licence, they are committing an offence. Your landlord may also be committing an offence by breaching the terms of their licence (for example by renting it out to too many people, behaving abusively to tenants or refusing to make urgent repairs.

If you think your home is unlicensed, does not have the correct licence or you think your landlord may be breaching the terms of their licence, use our tool to report this to your local council to investigate.

Need a document on this page in an accessible format?

If you use assistive technology (such as a screen reader)and needa version of a PDF or other document on this page in a more accessible format, please get in touch via ouronline formand tell us which format you need.

It will also help usif you tell us which assistive technology you use. We’ll consider your request and get back to you in 5 working days.

Does my rental home need a property licence? (2024)

FAQs

Do Chicago landlords need a license? ›

Cook County Residential Rental License Ordinance

A Residential Rental License is required to be obtained by the owner of each rental dwelling unit (including condominium units) in buildings of four (4) or more units. An interior inspection of the residential rental unit will also be required.

Do I need a license to rent my house in Michigan? ›

Required State License(s):

A real estate license is required with the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Bureau of Professional Licensing 517-241-0199 for "property management" (third parties who rent or lease real property for others for a fee).

Do you need a license to be a landlord in TN? ›

Every landlord in Tennessee must obtain a landlord rental license from the local government. It is the landlord's duty to ensure that the rental unit is safe and habitable at all times. This includes complying with all relevant building codes.

How do I get a rental license in Illinois? ›

Requirements
  1. Submit the Residential Rental License Application Form. You will receive an email to complete the Crime Free Housing Seminar.
  2. Complete the Crime Free Housing Seminar.
  3. Pay the appropriate fee. ...
  4. Once the application, seminar, and payment have been verified your rental license will be issued and mailed.

Do you need a real estate license to be a landlord in Illinois? ›

YES. Key components of property management (renting and leasing) are considered real estate activities under existing Illinois real estate licensing laws. A person needs a real estate license if they provide assistance intended to result in the sale or lease of real estate.

Can I manage my own rental property in Michigan? ›

Since property management is a real estate activity under current Michigan real estate licensing laws, you need need a real estate broker's license to manage rental property. Under the Michigan Public Act, if you are a landlord who directly manages your rental property, you must have a real estate broker's license.

How much is a rental license in Michigan? ›

Appropriate Fees

The current fee for an initial rental license is $1550. This can be paid via check, cash or credit card (Visa, Mastercard, or Discover) at City Hall located at 410 Abbot Rd, East Lansing, MI 48823.

How much notice does a landlord have to give to enter property in Michigan? ›

These situations include entry for needed repairs or improvements or to show the property to prospective tenants or purchasers. Generally, the landlord must enter only at a reasonable time of day, after giving at least 24 hours of notice.

What do I need to do to be a landlord in Michigan? ›

You must apply for a rental license from the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). You will also need to obtain a landlord certificate from your county clerk's office. In addition, you may need to obtain additional local permits or licenses in order to rent out your home in certain cities.

Can you manage property without a license in Tennessee? ›

Property managers in Tennessee must have a real estate broker's license to practice property management in the state. To obtain this license, you must meet the following criteria: You will need to be at least 18 years of age. Be a citizen of the United States.

What is the most a landlord can raise rent? ›

Landlords cannot raise rent annually more than 5% plus inflation according to the regional Consumer Price Index, for a maximum increase of 10% each year.

How do I get around 3x the rent? ›

If you don't make 3 times the rent, you can still try to get the apartment by putting up a larger security deposit, finding a guarantor, or demonstrating your fiscal responsibility by showing your potential landlord bank statements that show you being responsible with your money and discretionary spending.

Do I need a license for Airbnb in Florida? ›

Hosted Rentals (short-term rentals while the host remains in the home) are not regulated by DBPR. Renting a single room or rooms other than the whole unit is not classified as a public lodging and would not require a license from DBPR.

Do I need a license for a short term rental in Florida? ›

In addition to state tax registration, Florida requires all vacation rentals to be licensed through the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).

How much is a rental license in Florida? ›

The application fee for the initial certificate of registration is $250, while it is $150 for a renewed certificate. The fee for the initial required inspection is included in the application fee, but a first re-inspection costs $50.

What can an unlicensed property manager do in Illinois? ›

While they don't require real estate licenses in these cases, property managers in Illinois can oversee general administration activities, including paying general expenses, serving as an accountant for association dues, and contracting maintenance services.

How do I set up an LLC for a rental property in Illinois? ›

Steps to Create an Illinois Rental Property LLC
  1. Choose LLC Name.
  2. Select Registered Agent.
  3. File Certificate of Organization.
  4. Create an Operating Agreement.
  5. Apply for Employment Identification Number (EIN)
  6. Transfer Title.
  7. Inform Lender.

How much is rental income taxed in Illinois? ›

The Rental Purchase Agreement Occupation Tax rate is 6.25 percent (. 0625). You must submit Form ST-201, Rental Purchase Agreement Occupation Tax Return, to report and pay the Rental Purchase Agreement Occupation Tax. Illinois law requires Form ST-201 to be filed electronically, and the tax to be paid electronically.

Do renters pay property tax in Illinois? ›

Since rental properties are generally treated as a business, the monthly rental charge typically has the annual cost of property taxes built in to ensure that the rental owner does not default on their annual property tax. So, in that sense, renters pay property tax, or at least the amount needed to cover it.

What activities require a real estate license in Illinois? ›

negotiate the sale, exchange, purchase, rental, or leasing of real estate. estate for sale, rent, lease, or exchange.

What's the maximum amount a Michigan landlord can require from a residential lessee as a security deposit? ›

A landlord can require a maximum of one and a half month's rent as a security deposit. A landlord must return the tenant's security deposit within 30 days of the move out date.

Do you need a real estate license to manage Airbnb in Michigan? ›

Other duties may include collecting rental payments each month, maintaining a rental property, and communicating with the landlord. However, it's important to note that if you want to become a part of a property management company in Michigan, you will need a real estate license.

Is Michigan a rent control state? ›

However, Michigan has no rent stabilization or rent control laws. This enables landlords to set rent and increase it across the state, given that they provide proper notice. On the other hand, the landlord can increase the rent with certain discretions, as much as they wish, and whenever they want.

Can landlords do random inspections in Michigan? ›

Your landlord can't enter your home without permission except in an emergency. If there is a problem that your landlord needs to enter your home to fix, you should be given notice a reasonable time before the landlord plans to enter.

How do I put my rent in escrow in Michigan? ›

Steps to the escrow process:
  1. To enroll in escrow, the applicant must complete an application and attach the necessary documents (rental documents, utility bills, and photo ID) online. ...
  2. Submission, the application is reviewed by BSEED for approval.
  3. Upon approval, an email is generated to ODFS for sub-account creation.
Jan 11, 2022

Can a landlord charge first last and security in Michigan? ›

If you pay your first and last month's rent when you move in, the last month's rent is really a security deposit. The only recognized exception to this rule in Michigan is a non-refundable fee, such as a cleaning fee paid at the beginning of a tenancy.

How much can landlord raise rent in Michigan? ›

The Regulatory Agreements typically state that the current residents cannot receive a rent increase over 5%. Vacant unit rents can be increased by more than 5% if the market can bear the increase and if the rent increase does not conflict with any program rent restrictions.

Can a tenant sue a landlord Michigan? ›

Under Michigan law, an tenant or rental injured due to the negligence or fault of a landlord or property manager can sue for the emotional distress they caused.

How often do landlords have to replace carpet in Michigan? ›

Generally speaking, most courts will set the carpet's life span at 10 years; so, the carpet would have to be depreciated by the number of years it has been in service to determine charges.

Who regulates landlords in Michigan? ›

HUD handles complaints about housing discrimination, bad landlords in federal housing and many other issues. For additional local resources, you can also contact a housing counseling agency.

What are landlords responsible for in Michigan? ›

The general rule is that for the entire lease term, the landlord must provide housing in good repair and the tenant must pay rent. If the tenant violates a legal lease or there are other good reasons for an eviction case, the landlord can file one during the lease term.

What is the Michigan Truth in Renting Act? ›

Its three major functions include: requiring landlords to disclose certain information in every lease; guaranteeing tenants certain rights under the law; and, prohibiting lease provisions that attempt to waive a tenant's guaranteed rights.

Do I need a business license for rental property in Tennessee? ›

Owners of short-term rental properties are required to obtain an operating permit from the Metro Codes Administration. This law applies to all properties (including rooms and guest houses) rented for less than 30 consecutive days to the same occupant.

Can a homeowner do their own electrical work in TN? ›

A homeowner of the residential property may perform work themselves ( individual use), without a contractor's license, as long as the residential structure is not open to the public; or for sale, lease or rent). Allowed one homeowner permit once every two (2) years.

What is the penalty for hiring an unlicensed contractor in Tennessee? ›

Unlicensed contractors can face criminal penalties, too. Violation of the licensing requirements is a Class A misdemeanor, which can result in up to one year of jail time and fines up to $2,500.

What does AB 1482 mean for landlords? ›

AB 1482 imposes rent caps on some residential rental properties in California. It also imposes “just cause” eviction requirements that apply after residents have occupied the unit for a certain period of time.

Who is exempt from AB 1482? ›

A single family home is exempt unless it's owned by a real estate investment trust (REIT), a corporation, or an LLC where one of the members is a corporation. The owner must inform the renter in writing that the tenancy is not subject to the rent cap and just cause limitations.

What is the Civil Code 827? ›

Section 827 - Notice of change of terms of lease for week to week, month to month or period less than month (a) Except as provided in subdivision (b), in all leases of lands or tenements, or of any interest therein, from week to week, month to month, or other period less than a month, the landlord may, upon giving ...

What does 2 1 2 times rent mean? ›

Rent To Income Ratio: Income Multiplier

If you want a tenant to make at least 2.5 times the monthly rent, you will use the 2.5 multiplier, and so on. Many landlords use the 3x multiplier, but you will need to determine what multiplier fits your rental business.

Why 3 times the rent? ›

By requiring that a tenant's income is at least three times the rent, the landlord can have confidence that the tenant will be able to afford the rent and may be less likely to default on their lease. Some landlords may be more flexible with their income requirements, while others may have stricter guidelines.

What does 3 times the rent mean? ›

Some communities use a 3 times rent calculator formula, meaning a renter's monthly income should be at least 3 times what goes to paying rent. At REE, we recommended that your income is at least 2.5 times your monthly rent amount.

What is the 90 day rule on Airbnb? ›

This means a property can't be let out on Airbnb for more than 90 days of occupied nights per year. Once your limit has been reached, Airbnb will automatically close bookings for your property until the end of the calendar year. The 90-day limit applies to both 90 consecutive days or 90 days spread throughout the year.

Can I do Airbnb without owning property? ›

Owning property is not a prerequisite when it comes to making money with Airbnb. Instead, you can sublet your space, house sit vacant Airbnbs, manage properties, and more! With over 5.6 million Airbnb's worldwide, you probably know of someone who hosts on Airbnb.

Can I do Airbnb if I rent? ›

Most landlords consider it to be subletting and generally they don't like - or allow it - whether it's via Airbnb or just to mates, so tenants need to get their landlord's permission first. Most rental contracts prevents tenant subletting.

Do you need a license for every rental property you have in Florida? ›

You must get a license from the DBPR if you are renting out an entire unit more than three times in a calendar year for stays of less than 30 days or if you market the unit to the public as a property that is frequently rented out to visitors.

Do I need a license to rent a room in my house in Florida? ›

Rooming and boarding houses do not require a business license from the State of Florida to operate. However, if you wish to prepare food on the premises, you may need to obtain a state license for that purpose from the Department of Business and Professional Regulation.

Can I manage property without a license in Florida? ›

No license is required for managing personally owned properties. There is not a "Property Manager" license or certificate. Also, certain rental properties need a license through the Div. of Hotels and Restaurants.

Is Chicago a landlord friendly state? ›

Yes, as noted above, Illinois is one of the most landlord friendly states in the country. Illinois has reasonable laws regarding rental properties. If you are in Chicago, the climate does switch to a more tenant friendly situation with regard to the law.

Do you need a leasing license in Illinois? ›

Who Needs to Be Licensed? All persons who want to engage in the leasing of residential property.

What a landlord Cannot do in Illinois? ›

Under the federal Fair Housing Act and Illinois law, it is unlawful for a landlord to discriminate in the leasing of a dwelling house, flat, or apartment against prospective tenants who have children under the age of 14 years.

Can you be a property manager in California without a license? ›

Licensing Laws

For anyone stepping into managing a property on behalf of the owner, the first requirement is to have a property management license in California. The regulation (10131-b) clearly states that buying, selling, or leasing property without a license, is unlawful.

Do you need a real estate license to be a property manager in WV? ›

Must West Virginia property management companies have a real estate broker's license? YES. Key components of property management (leasing, managing and renting) are considered real estate activities under existing West Virginia real estate licensing laws.

Do you have to be a licensed real estate agent to be a property manager in Texas? ›

Property management agencies in Texas are required to have an active real estate broker's license. This is because leasing and renting, which are critical components of property management, are considered real estate activities by current Texas real estate licensing laws.

What is the most a landlord can raise your rent Chicago? ›

There's no legal limit on how much your landlord can raise your rent in Illinois, but they must inform you ahead of time with a written notice.

What are landlords responsible for in Chicago? ›

A Chicago landlord's obligations fall into a few major categories: the landlord must maintain the premises; the landlord must stay out of the premises, except in certain circ*mstances; the landlord must safeguard and return the security deposit, the landlord may not engage in illegal housing discrimination; the ...

Can I sue my landlord in Chicago? ›

Thus, a Chicago tenant can sue a landlord for personal injuries under both common law and the RLTO. An RLTO claim allows tenants to recover for their injuries as well as receiving an award of reasonable attorney fees.

How much is a leasing license in Illinois? ›

Leasing Agent license, an application must be completed and signed pursuant to Illinois Administrative Code Title 68 Part 1450.220(a)(1). is $75.

What is the difference between a license and a lease in Illinois? ›

Lease and License Overview

A lease is a contract between a tenant and a landlord that provides the tenant with exclusive interest in the property. A license, on the other hand, is when the owner gives permission to a licensee to conduct an action on the owner's property.

How hard is the Illinois real estate exam? ›

The passing rate for the Illinois Real Estate Broker Exam is 75%. This test is purposefully difficult, but not impossible. Be sure to pay attention during your pre-license course and take studying seriously. If you put the proper effort forth, we know that you can pass on your first attempt!

What is the new law for landlords in Illinois? ›

Under new law, Illinois landlords can't discriminate based on tenants' 'sources of income' - The Council of State Governments.

What is the landlord tenant law in Illinois 2023? ›

The state law allows tenants to seek habitable housing, meaning that the property should be presented in good condition by the landlord. In case the property suffers from damages that exceed normal wear and tear, the landlord must provide repairs within a reasonable time frame.

Are landlords required to provide air conditioning in Illinois? ›

Do Illinois Landlords Have To Provide AC? Illinois legislation doesn't address heating and AC, meaning there are no laws stating that rental units must have them. Neighboring Michigan only requires landlords to supply heat to residents, although Ohio requires heating and AC in rental units.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Jeremiah Abshire

Last Updated:

Views: 6632

Rating: 4.3 / 5 (54 voted)

Reviews: 85% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Jeremiah Abshire

Birthday: 1993-09-14

Address: Apt. 425 92748 Jannie Centers, Port Nikitaville, VT 82110

Phone: +8096210939894

Job: Lead Healthcare Manager

Hobby: Watching movies, Watching movies, Knapping, LARPing, Coffee roasting, Lacemaking, Gaming

Introduction: My name is Jeremiah Abshire, I am a outstanding, kind, clever, hilarious, curious, hilarious, outstanding person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.