Landlord guide for Southampton

Landlord licensing and compliance reference for Southampton (Southampton City Council, South East; population ~253,000).

Licensing position

Southampton operates additional HMO licensing across most of the city and city-wide HMO Article 4 controls.

• Additional HMO licensing covers all HMOs of 3 or 4 people from 2+ households across most of the city.
• Mandatory 5+ person HMO licensing applies UK-wide.
• City-wide Article 4 Direction restricts new HMO conversions.
• Selective licensing has been consulted on in certain wards.

Local notes

• University of Southampton + Solent ~40,000 students.
• Strong demand near the hospital trust.

Indicative Southampton PRS rent (2025) ~£1,100/month for a 2-bed.

Council licensing page: https://www.southampton.gov.uk/housing/landlords/houses-in-multiple-occupation-hmo/

Reference data only — always confirm the current scheme on the council's own page.