Greenwich Compliance Requirements
Complete guide to supported living and HMO compliance in Greenwich. Covers licensing, property standards, required documents, fees, and timelines.
Licensing Requirements
Mandatory HMO
Required
Additional HMO
Required
Borough-wide additional licensing for HMOs with 3-4 occupants. Active 1 January 2024 to 31 December 2028.
Selective Licensing
Active
Designated areas across the borough
Article 4 Direction
Not in place
Check with planning department for specific area requirements
Exempt Accommodation
Supported accommodation may be exempt under Housing Act 2004 s254/s257. Contact council for assessment.
Property Standards
Minimum Room Sizes
Fire Safety Requirements
- Smoke alarms on every floor
- Heat detectors in kitchens
- Fire doors on escape routes
- Fire risk assessment required
- Fire safety equipment
- Clear escape routes
Required Certificates
Gas Safety
Annual gas safety certificate (CP12)
Electrical Safety
EICR every 5 years minimum
EPC Rating
Minimum E rating required by law
Planning Permission
C4 use class for 3-6 occupants. Sui Generis for 7+.
Additional Requirements
- Adequate heating throughout
- Hot and cold water
- Adequate ventilation
- Secure entry systems
- Waste management facilities
Required Documents
Fees & Timeline
Licence Fees
- HMO Licence
- £508.50 per letting (e.g., £2,542.50 for 5-person HMO). 15% discount for renewals.
- Additional Licence
- £1,525.50 for 3 lettings + £508.50 per extra unit up to 5
- Selective Licence
- £872.59 (15% renewal discount)
Timeline
- Licence Processing
- 8-12 weeks typical
- Typical Setup Time
- 4-8 weeks from application to approval
Greenwich-Specific Notes
- Three licensing schemes: Mandatory HMO, Additional HMO, and Selective Licensing
- Additional licensing scheme active 1 January 2024 to 31 December 2028
- Fees charged per letting for mandatory HMO
- 15% discount for renewals or accepting council-nominated tenant for 12+ months
- ~2,250 mandatory and ~7,500 additional HMOs estimated
Frequently Asked Questions
What licences are required for HMOs in Greenwich?
What are the minimum room sizes in Greenwich?
How much does an HMO licence cost in Greenwich?
What fire safety requirements apply in Greenwich?
What documents are needed for compliance in Greenwich?
Contact & Sources
Council Contact
Greenwich Property Licensing Team
property.licensing@royalgreenwich.gov.uk
020 8921 4428
Greenwich Compliance Checklist
Tick off items you already have to see your compliance score.