HMO licensing in Reading

Which licences a rented house needs in Reading, and where. England. Checked 7 September 2026.

Reading runs additional licensing on top of mandatory licensing.

Mandatory HMO licence: 5 or more people forming 2 or more households sharing facilities.

Additional licensing

Extends HMO licensing to smaller HMOs (typically 3 or 4 people) in a designated area.

StatusIn forceWherewhole districtDesignated1 March 2026Ends28 February 2031

Designation made 13 November 2025, in force 1 March 2026, ceases 28 February 2031 unless revoked; applies to the entire district (all HMOs with fewer than 5 occupants). Designation notice: https://www.reading.gov.uk/housing/private-renting/extension-of-property-licensing/designation-of-area-for-additional-licensing-for-houses-and-flats-in-multiple-occupation/

Selective licensing

Every privately rented home in a designated area needs a licence, HMO or not.

None found

Proposed only. Page states you cannot yet apply and the formal designations have not yet been made; Battle expected within 2 years, Park and Redlands at 12 to 14 month intervals thereafter.

Council HMO page · Council Article 4 page · HMO Article 4 in Reading

Check an exact postcode for Article 4

Is a postcode inside an HMO Article 4 area?

See this on every listing.Kerbio puts the Article 4 answer, licensing, the council's HMO register and sold prices on the Rightmove, Zoopla or OnTheMarket page itself. Free for 7 days, then £39 a month.

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Sources: Reading council, gov.uk HMO licensing. Schemes change; confirm with the council before you offer.