Applications are now open for Woking Borough Council’s new additional licensing scheme for smaller shared rented homes, following its approval earlier this year.

The scheme, which begins on 5 January 2026, will apply to smaller Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) – properties where 3 or more people from 2 or more households share facilities such as kitchens and bathrooms.

Larger HMOs with 5 or more occupants are already subject to mandatory licensing.

The new scheme aims to tackle concerns about poor property conditions, inadequate management and the reluctance of some tenants to report issues due to fear of eviction.

By requiring landlords of smaller HMOs to obtain a licence, the additional licensing scheme will:

• ensure homes are safe, well-managed and meet appropriate standards
• provide tenants with greater protection against overcrowding, harassment and illegal eviction
• support landlords with clear guidance to meet their responsibilities
• help build more settled communities by reducing tenant turnover
• enable proactive inspections to address issues before they escalate.

Cllr Liam Lyons, Portfolio Holder for Regulation, said: “The additional licensing scheme for smaller houses in multiple occupation is about fairness, safety and accountability in the private rented sector.

“Everyone deserves a decent place to live, and by extending licensing to smaller shared homes, we’re raising standards and protecting tenants.

“We know many landlords already provide good quality accommodation, and this scheme will help ensure consistency across the board. It’s also about supporting landlords with the tools and guidance they need to succeed.

“I strongly encourage landlords to apply as soon as possible to ensure compliance ahead of the scheme’s launch on 5 January 2026.”

The scheme was shaped by feedback from a public consultation, which received 177 responses. Notably, 76% of private tenants strongly agreed with the council taking action to improve HMO management, and 80% of all respondents supported the proposal.

Applications for licences can now be submitted via the council’s website.

View or download a copy of the additional licensing scheme.

Landlords are encouraged to apply early to ensure compliance ahead of the scheme’s launch.

Apply for a new additional license for a smaller house in multiple occupation.