Houses in multiple occupation (HMOs)

Houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) can offer good quality affordable accommodation to people who cannot afford to buy their own homes and are not eligible for council housing.

Metastreet transition FAQ

Will I need to create an account in the new system?

No, an invite will be sent to you with a link to access your account.

I have submitted my application in the current system do I need to reapply?

We will be transferring all previously submitted applications to our new system.

What If I am part way through an application?

If you have applied and paid the initial fee, the application information will be transferred into the new system.  If you have not made an initial payment before 15 March 2023 you will need to submit a new application.

I have a pending renewal, what should I do?

You should receive a notification from the system to renew your licence

Should I wait for the new system to go live before submitting an application?

If you are not able to apply with an initial payment before 15 March 2023, it may be advisable to wait until the new system goes live.

Will any documents previously submitted appear in the new system?

Yes, these will be transferred shortly after the system goes live. If you are unable to see your documents within 3 weeks, please email hmolicensing@lambeth.gov.uk

I am responsible for multiple applications; will I be able to see all the properties I am responsible for?

Yes, all properties listed against your account will be accessible for you to view.

How will payments be taken through the system?

When you submit an application and make the initial payment, you can select the option to authorise the council to take any future payments from the same card under Continuous Payment Authority (CPA).

If you authorise CPA, any further payments will be taken from the card provided.

I made my initial payment in the previous system; how will the final licence payment be requested?

Once the licence has been approved an email will be sent requesting payment.

Upon making payment, you can select the option to authorise the council to take any future payments from the same card under Continuous Payment Authority (CPA).

Can I pay for multiple applications in a single transaction?

The payment platform connected to the new system has a limitation allowing you to pay for up to 8 applications at a time.

If you have more than 8 you will need to pay for these in batches of up to 8.

For example, if you have 14 applications, you can complete and pay for 8 and then complete and pay for the remaining 6.

When will I get my licence?

We are working really hard to ensure we review all applications as soon as possible.

All licences will be issued on receipt of full payment. Failure to make the final payment within 10 working days will result in a licence not being issued and enforcement action taken against the premise being unlicenced.

How will I receive my documents?

Documents will be available in your account and where email addresses are provided for interested parties, documentation will be sent electronically. 

What if the information transferred into my account in the new system is incorrect or inaccurate?

In the unlikely event that this happens, please email hmolicensing@lambeth.gov.uk outlining what the issue is and we will contact you to resolve.

What if I provide incorrect information on my application?

You must contact us as soon as you are aware of incorrect information as any false or incorrect information provided is likely to invalidate your licence.

What is the difference between a household and a letting?

Whilst completing the application each room is considered as a separate letting.

Can I apply for a Temporary Exemption Notice through the new system?

Yes.