See official guidnace for Local Authority Officers - Selective licensing in the private rented sector: a guide for local authorities - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

DASH has brought together a number of useful guides to assist housing professionals in the area: 

 Houses in Multiple Occupation - Licensing

 A Guide to the Management of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs)

Many Local Authorities are considering introducing Discretionary Licensing of properties in the private rented sector.

20th June 2023 Update: Selective licensing in the private rented sector: a guide for local authorities - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Landlords are encouraged to visit the individual Local Authority’s websites to ascertain if a Discretionary Licensing is in operation - the Council do not take unawareness of a scheme as a defence and you could face a fine or even prosecution.