East of England · Council licensing

Landlord licensing in Chelmsford

✓ Hand-verified 19 Aug 2026

Beyond mandatory HMO licensing, Chelmsford 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
£900

One payment.

Each unit£55

Chelmsford — chelmsford.gov.uk, read 19 Aug 2026

Selective licensingNot in force

Chelmsford does not operate a selective licensing scheme. The council's own page states: "We do not have Additional or Selective licensing schemes in place." Source: https://www.chelmsford.gov.uk/business/licensing/licensing-a-house-in-multiple-occupation/ Checked 2026-08-05. Mandatory HMO licensing still applies wherever a property is let to five or more people forming two or more households.

Additional licensing (HMOs)Not in force

Chelmsford does not operate a additional licensing scheme. The council's own page states: "We do not have Additional or Selective licensing schemes in place." Source: https://www.chelmsford.gov.uk/business/licensing/licensing-a-house-in-multiple-occupation/ Checked 2026-08-05. Mandatory HMO licensing still applies wherever a property is let to five or more people forming two or more households.

Common questions

Does Chelmsford have a selective licensing scheme?

No. Chelmsford 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 Chelmsford have an additional HMO licensing scheme?

No. Chelmsford 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 Chelmsford?

A mandatory HMO licence is required anywhere in England and Wales, including Chelmsford, 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: Chelmsford licensing page →

Every landlord in Chelmsford 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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