Lewisham Compliance Requirements
Complete guide to supported living and HMO compliance in Lewisham. 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
Selective Licensing
Active
Nearly all privately rented properties in the borough (active from July 2024)
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
- £500 per lettable unit (e.g., £2,500 for 5 occupants)
- Additional Licence
- £500 per lettable unit
- Selective Licence
- £640 (£160 on application, £480 on granting)
Timeline
- Licence Processing
- 8-12 weeks typical
- Typical Setup Time
- 4-8 weeks from application to approval
Lewisham-Specific Notes
- Three licensing schemes: Mandatory HMO, Additional HMO, and Selective Licensing
- Selective licensing scheme active from July 2024 covering ~20,000 properties
- Fees charged per lettable unit for HMO licences
- Discounts available for LLAS/NRLA accredited landlords and registered charities
- Additional charges: £250 for inspections/floor plans, £275 for occupancy changes
Frequently Asked Questions
What licences are required for HMOs in Lewisham?
What are the minimum room sizes in Lewisham?
How much does an HMO licence cost in Lewisham?
What fire safety requirements apply in Lewisham?
What documents are needed for compliance in Lewisham?
Contact & Sources
Council Contact
Lewisham Property Licensing Team
privatehousing@lewisham.gov.uk
020 8314 8300
Lewisham Compliance Checklist
Tick off items you already have to see your compliance score.