HMO Licensing in Exeter: What Landlords Need to Know

If you're a landlord considering renting to students in Exeter, understanding the rules around HMO licensing is essential. Exeter has specific regulations, including Article 4 Direction and mandatory HMO licensing, which affect how you let your property. This guide breaks down what you need to know — and how Star Students helps landlords stay compliant and stress-free.

What Is an HMO?

An HMO (House in Multiple Occupation) is a property rented out by at least three unrelated tenants who share communal areas such as a kitchen or bathroom.

In a student city like Exeter, many rental properties fall into this category — particularly those let to groups of university students. However, HMOs are heavily regulated to ensure tenant safety and housing standards.

Understanding Exeter’s Article 4 Direction

Exeter City Council introduced an Article 4 Direction in 2011. This planning regulation means landlords need planning permission to convert a family home (C3 use class) into an HMO (C4 use class) — even for small shared houses.

You Need Planning Permission If:

  • Your property is in a designated Article 4 area (such as St James, Mount Pleasant, or Pennsylvania)

  • You want to convert a single-family home into a student let

  • The property will be let to three or more unrelated people

Failure to obtain planning permission can result in enforcement action, fines, or even the reversal of the conversion.

When Is an HMO Licence Required?

You’ll need to apply for an HMO licence from Exeter City Council if:

  • Your property is rented to five or more tenants from more than one household

  • Tenants share kitchen or bathroom facilities

  • At least one tenant pays rent

Licences typically last five years, and your property must meet minimum room sizes, fire safety regulations, and waste disposal arrangements.

Without an HMO Licence, You Risk:

  • Fines up to £30,000

  • Rent repayment orders

  • Invalid possession proceedings

  • Difficulty obtaining insurance

Key Safety & Property Requirements

Exeter’s licensing conditions are strict. Your property will likely need:

  • Fire doors, interlinked smoke alarms, and fire blankets

  • Annual gas safety certificates

  • An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) every five years

  • Clear, accessible escape routes

  • Adequate kitchen and bathroom facilities based on tenant numbers

  • Proper waste storage and collection arrangements

Star Students can carry out pre-inspections and recommend necessary upgrades to help you meet all requirements.

How Star Students Helps Landlords Navigate HMO Compliance

Navigating planning laws and licensing can be time-consuming and confusing. That’s where Star Students steps in.

Our Services Include:

  • Initial property assessments to determine if a licence is required

  • Guidance through Article 4 planning applications

  • Arranging fire safety upgrades via trusted local contractors

  • Ensuring all legal paperwork (EICR, gas safety, EPC) is up to date

  • Assisting with HMO licence applications

  • Ongoing property management to maintain full compliance

We’ve helped dozens of landlords in Exeter convert and manage their HMOs successfully — without the stress.

Why Compliance Matters for Your Investment

Staying compliant not only keeps you on the right side of the law, but it also:

  • Protects your investment (insurance won’t cover unlicensed HMOs)

  • Keeps your tenants safe and satisfied

  • Increases the long-term value of your property

  • Makes your property easier to rent year after year

Thinking of Letting to Students in Exeter?

Whether you're a first-time landlord or have a growing portfolio, understanding Exeter's HMO licensing is critical to your success.

Let Star Students handle the paperwork, compliance, and tenant sourcing — so you can focus on maximising returns.

Contact us today for a free HMO consultation or visit our landlord services page to learn more.

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