After a long wait, parliamentary approval of the changes to HMO (Houses in Multiple Occupation) licensing was accepted on 23rd February 2018. These changes will come into effect on 1st October 2018.
Applications and fees will vary by local authority areas. Further details will be promulgated as and when they become available.
For further information, please see the following document or contact your local authority;
http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2018/221/made