To Let Cambridge: What Landlords Need to Know About Licensing in Cambridge UK

Letting a property in Cambridge? It’s not just about finding a tenant. It’s about making sure you meet every legal requirement—especially when it comes to licensing. Here’s what every landlord needs to know about rental property licensing in Cambridge UK.

When You Need a Licence

Licensing applies to more than just HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation). In Cambridge, you may need one if:

• You let to three or more unrelated tenants (mandatory HMO licence)

• Your property falls under an Additional Licensing Scheme in designated wards

• Your property requires Selective Licensing (in future changes—watch this space)

Even small misunderstandings can lead to serious non-compliance.

What Licensing Covers

Licensing isn’t just paperwork. It requires landlords to meet key housing standards, including:

• Maximum occupancy levels

• Sufficient kitchen and bathroom facilities

• Up-to-date EPCs and fire safety compliance

• Adequate escape routes and fire doors

• Proper layout for safe, legal habitation

Our team helps you assess whether your property meets licensing conditions before you list.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Getting it wrong can be costly. Risks include:

• Fines of up to £30,000 per breach

• Rent repayment orders where tenants can claim back up to 12 months’ rent

• Potential loss of Section 21 rights (meaning you can’t evict tenants easily)

• Damage to your reputation and future letting ability

Cambridge Stays protects landlords from legal exposure through proactive compliance checks.

How to Check If Your Property Needs Licensing

Use Cambridge City Council’s online licensing tools or contact their housing team. You’ll need to check:

• Ward boundaries (some areas have additional licensing rules)

• Number and type of tenants

• Tenancy agreement structure

We’ll handle the check for you—and keep you informed if licensing requirements change in your area.

What Landlords Must Provide When Applying

To apply for a licence, you’ll need:

• A floor plan with room dimensions

• Valid Gas Safety Certificate, EICR, and EPC

• Fire risk assessment

• A signed fit and proper person declaration

• Application fee, which varies by property type

We collect, prepare, and submit your entire application as part of our full management service.

Cambridge Stays Ensures Your Let Is Fully Licensed and Legal

Our Cambridge-based team:

• Reviews your property for licensing triggers

• Submits licence applications and manages renewals

• Coordinates required inspections and upgrades

• Keeps you updated on legal changes before they affect you

We make compliance seamless, so you can focus on income—not red tape.

Unsure If Your Property Needs a Licence? We’ll Check, Apply, and Manage Compliance for You.

Letting legally is non-negotiable. With Cambridge Stays, it’s also completely manageable.

Book a compliance check with our team today—your licence (and peace of mind) is one step away.