Which possession proceedings?

HMO Properties

If your property is an HMO, the next thing to do is find out if it needs an HMO license.

As the situation will vary from Local Authority to Local Authority, probably the best thing to do is to contact your Local Authority and see what the situation is for your property.  Landlord Law members will also be able to look up the information on our  Local Authority Directory.

If your property needs a license

If you have not already got one, you need to make an application for a license ASAP.  Not least because running an unlicensed HMO will make you vulnerable to prosecution and fines, and the penalties can be severe.

The other reason is that any no-fault possession notice served will be invalid if it is served on contract holders in an HMO which needs a license but does not have one.

There are two exceptions.

• The first is that you CAN serve a valid notice after your license application has been submitted and is being processed by the Local Authority – even if it is not in the end granted.
• The second is to apply for a   temporary exemption notice.  However, be aware that these can only last for three months, and you can only apply for one extension.  So you will need to proceed with your notice and proceedings promptly.

If your property does not need a license or if you already have one

Click the next button below.

Note that if you are worried about things, you can always use our   HMO telephone Hotline advice service.  Select JMW Solicitors as they have experience in Welsh law.

Note that we have a lot of guidance on HMO issues for Members on Landlord Law.  You can locate this via this page.