East of England · Council licensing

Landlord licensing in Babergh

✓ Hand-verified 18 Aug 2026

Beyond mandatory HMO licensing, Babergh does not currently operate a selective or additional licensing scheme. Here's the current position.

Mandatory HMO licenceRequired

Required for any HMO let to 5 or more people forming 2+ households who share facilities.

Licence feeSingle fee
£564.76

One payment.

Babergh, read 19 August 2026

Selective licensingNot in force

Evidenced negative by enumeration (first-party research 17 Aug 2026): the council HMO page states "All HMOs occupied by five or more people need a licence. It is an offence to operate without a licence. The fee for a licence is GBP 564.76". No selective scheme referenced. Shared service with Mid Suffolk. The 2025 Licensing Policy consultation relates to the Licensing Act 2003 (alcohol and entertainment), not Housing Act licensing.

Additional licensing (HMOs)Not in force

Evidenced negative by enumeration (17 Aug 2026): the council HMO licence application form is headed "HOUSING ACT 2004 - PART 2 APPLICATION FOR A LICENCE FOR A HOUSE IN MULTIPLE OCCUPATION" and cites only the standard mandatory fee. No additional scheme.

Common questions

Does Babergh have a selective licensing scheme?

No. Babergh does not currently operate a selective licensing scheme. Mandatory HMO licensing still applies wherever a property is let to five or more people forming two or more households.

Does Babergh have an additional HMO licensing scheme?

No. Babergh does not currently operate an additional HMO licensing scheme. Mandatory HMO licensing still applies wherever a property is let to five or more people forming two or more households.

Do I need an HMO licence in Babergh?

A mandatory HMO licence is required anywhere in England and Wales, including Babergh, where a property is let to five or more people forming two or more households who share basic amenities. Smaller shared houses may also need a licence where an additional licensing scheme applies.

Check your own propertyUnderstanding licensing

All property licensing in East of England

Source: Babergh licensing page →

Every landlord in Babergh also needs

A valid Gas Safety certificate (annual), an EICR (every 5 years), a valid EPC, a protected deposit, smoke & CO alarms, the Renters' Rights Act Information Sheet, and a current How to Rent guide — plus the new Section 8 possession rules since Section 21 was abolished on 1 May 2026.

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Landlord HQ uses AI to analyse legislation and tenancy agreements. While we work hard to ensure accuracy, AI can make mistakes. Always verify compliance requirements with a qualified solicitor. Landlord HQ is an information tool, not legal advice.

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