If your rented property needs a licence, you may be able to get a Temporary Exemption Notice (TEN).
A TEN lasts 3 months. It gives you time to make arrangements so the property will no longer need a licence.
When you may be able to get a TEN
You may be able to get a TEN if, for example:
- you're selling the property with vacant possession (no tenants living there)
- the landlord has died, the property is in probate and arrangements are being made for its future
- the property has been repossessed by the mortgage lender, such as a bank or building society
Meeting one of these circumstances does not mean we'll definitely grant a TEN.
We look at all the circumstances of each application and the evidence you send.
What we check
When we consider your application, we check that:
- you're taking genuine steps to make sure the property will no longer need a licence
- you can realistically finish your arrangements within 3 months, taking into account the law on tenancies and possession under the Renters' Rights Act 2025
- existing tenants are not at risk of being treated unfairly or made homeless
- you're not using the TEN instead of getting a licence, for example to run a house in multiple occupation (HMO) for a short time
- you're not using the TEN to avoid enforcement action or court proceedings against the landlord
If your property already needs a licence and you have not applied
We'll check whether you're using a TEN application to avoid licensing.
If we decide you are, we'll refuse your application.
What you need to apply
You'll need to send evidence that you're taking steps so the property will no longer need a licence.
This could be:
- confirmation that you're selling the property, such as a sale contract or a letter from your estate agent or solicitor
- a death certificate and grant of probate, if the landlord has passed away
- repossession documents from the mortgage lender
- letters or documents from the court
- other legal documents or contracts from your solicitor
You'll also need to explain how you'll finish your arrangements within 3 months.
How to apply
You can only apply if you're responsible for the rented property.
The application form is on our property licensing website, which is run by a different organisation.
What happens next
We consider TEN applications on a case-by-case basis. We’ll send our decision to you in writing.
You may make another TEN application to extend the temporary exemption for another 3 months once your existing TEN has expired. We only grant this in exceptional circumstances.