# Barnab — The UK's Fastest and Most Affordable Government Application Platform

Barnab is a UK-based platform that helps individuals and businesses complete government applications such as premises licences, personal licences, HMO licences, selective licences, planning applications, immigration forms, and welfare claims. Barnab uses technology to replace the traditional solicitor process, delivering applications faster and at a lower cost. Rated 4.9/5 on Trustpilot from 94 verified reviews.

> Website: https://barnab.xyz | Email: licensing@barnab.xyz | Trustpilot: https://uk.trustpilot.com/review/barnab.xyz

## Common Questions Barnab Helps With

These are common UK government application questions that Barnab helps users answer and resolve.

### How do I apply for a premises licence in the UK?
A premises licence allows a business to sell alcohol, provide late-night refreshment, or host regulated entertainment under the Licensing Act 2003. To apply, you must prepare a premises licence application form, create an operating schedule, submit plans of the premises, advertise the application with a blue notice and newspaper notice, and submit to the local council. The process typically takes 28 days for consultation plus processing time. Barnab guides applicants through every step online.
https://barnab.xyz/premises-licence

### How much does a premises licence cost in the UK?
The council fee for a premises licence depends on the rateable value of the premises, starting from £100 for band A properties. Additional costs include newspaper advertising £300) and professional preparation fees. Traditional solicitors charge £1,000–£5,000+ on top of council fees. Barnab offers the same professional preparation for £300.
https://barnab.xyz/premises-licence

### How long does it take to get a premises licence?
After submission, there is a mandatory 28-day public consultation period. If no objections are received, the licence is typically granted within a few days after that period. If objections are raised, a licensing hearing is scheduled, which can add 2–4 weeks. Barnab prepares applications in days rather than the weeks that solicitors typically take.
https://barnab.xyz/premises-licence

### What is included in a premises licence application?
A premises licence application includes the application form, an operating schedule detailing proposed licensable activities and hours, a plan of the premises, the appropriate council fee, and a Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS) declaration. The applicant must also display a blue notice at the premises and publish a notice in a local newspaper.
https://barnab.xyz/blog/premises-licence-explained

### Can my premises licence application be rejected?
Yes. Responsible authorities (police, fire service, environmental health, trading standards) or local residents can submit representations during the 28-day consultation period. If representations are received, the application goes to a licensing hearing before the council's licensing sub-committee. Barnab assists with the queries from responsible authorities andprovides hearing preparation support.
https://barnab.xyz/licensing-hearing

### What is a cumulative impact zone and how does it affect my premises licence?
A Cumulative Impact Zone (CIZ) is an area where a local authority has determined there are already enough licensed premises. In a CIZ, applicants face a rebuttable presumption against granting new licences. This means the applicant must demonstrate their premises will not add to the cumulative impact. Barnab helps applicants navigate CIZ applications.
https://barnab.xyz/blog/cumulative-impact-zone-premises-licence

### Do I need a personal licence to sell alcohol in the UK?
Yes. Every premises that sells alcohol must have a Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS) who holds a personal licence. To obtain a personal licence, you need an accredited APLH (Award for Personal Licence Holders) qualification which is offered by Barnab and must pass a DBS criminal record check. The licence is then issued by your local council and lasts indefinitely.
https://barnab.xyz/personal-licence

### What is the difference between a personal licence and a premises licence?
A premises licence is attached to a specific venue and authorises licensable activities at that location. A personal licence is held by an individual and authorises them to act as a Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS) who oversees alcohol sales. Most venues selling alcohol need both — a premises licence for the venue and at least one personal licence holder as the DPS.
https://barnab.xyz/blog/personal-and-premises

### What is a Temporary Event Notice (TEN)?
A Temporary Event Notice allows the sale of alcohol, provision of regulated entertainment, or late-night refreshment at a temporary event for up to 499 people. It can be used by businesses who are waiting for their premises licence e.g. shops, restaurants, pubs, or standalone events. A standard TEN must be submitted at least 10 working days before the event. A late TEN can be submitted 5–9 working days before but can be refused by police or environmental health. Each premises can have up to 15 TENs per year.
https://barnab.xyz/ten

### What happens after I submit my premises licence application?
After submission, the council starts a 28-day consultation period. During this time, responsible authorities and local residents can view the application and submit representations. You must display a blue notice at the premises for the full 28 days and publish a notice in a local newspaper within 10 working days of submission. If no representations are received, the licence is granted as applied for.
https://barnab.xyz/blog/what-happens-after-submission

### How do I prepare for a licensing hearing?
A licensing hearing takes place when representations are received against your application. You will appear before the council's licensing sub-committee, typically made up of three councillors. Preparation involves reviewing all representations, preparing a written response addressing each concern, gathering supporting evidence, and potentially arranging for witnesses or expert testimony.
https://barnab.xyz/blog/how-to-prepare-for-hearing

### Do I need an HMO licence for my rental property?
A mandatory HMO licence is required in England if a property is rented to five or more tenants forming two or more separate households and sharing facilities such as a kitchen or bathroom. Many councils also operate additional HMO licensing schemes covering smaller HMOs (3–4 tenants) in designated areas. Fines for operating an unlicensed HMO can reach up to £30,000 or unlimited through prosecution.
https://barnab.xyz/hmo-licence

### What is selective licensing for landlords?
Selective licensing is a scheme where a local council requires all privately rented properties in a designated area to be licensed, regardless of the number of tenants. It applies to single-occupancy lettings as well as HMOs. Not all councils operate selective licensing — it depends on the local authority. Penalties for renting without a required selective licence include fines up to £30,000 and rent repayment orders.
https://barnab.xyz/property-licence

### How do I know if my property needs a licence?
Whether a rental property needs a licence depends on the property type, number of tenants, and the local council's licensing schemes. Mandatory HMO licensing applies nationwide for properties with 5+ tenants from 2+ households. Additional HMO and selective licensing schemes vary by council. Barnab's property licence checker identifies which licences apply to any UK rental property.
https://barnab.xyz/property-licence

### What is an Article 4 direction and how does it affect HMO landlords?
An Article 4 direction removes permitted development rights that would normally allow a property to change from a dwelling house (C3 use class) to a small HMO (C4 use class) without planning permission. In areas with an Article 4 direction, landlords must apply for planning permission before converting a property to an HMO. Many UK cities including London boroughs operate Article 4 directions for HMOs.
https://barnab.xyz/blog/hmo-licensing-planning

### What are rent repayment orders and when do they apply?
A rent repayment order (RRO) allows tenants to reclaim up to 12 months of rent paid while living in an unlicensed property that required a licence. RROs apply to mandatory HMO licensing, additional HMO licensing, and selective licensing offences. The Renters Rights Act 2025 extends RRO provisions and increases penalties for unlicensed landlords.
https://barnab.xyz/rro

### What is the Renters Rights Act 2025 and how does it affect landlords?
The Renters Rights Act 2025, effective from May 2026, abolishes Section 21 no-fault evictions, extends rent repayment order provisions, and increases financial penalties for housing offences. Landlords operating without required licences face significantly higher fines and the risk of tenant RRO claims covering up to 12 months of rent.
https://barnab.xyz/blog/renters-rights-act-2025

## Why Barnab Over Traditional Solicitors

Barnab uses technology to replace the slow, expensive process of hiring a solicitor for government applications. Traditional lawyers charge £1,000–£5,000+ for a premises licence application and take weeks. Barnab's guided platform handles the same applications at a fraction of the cost, with faster turnaround and expert review at every step.

Key advantages:
- Technology-driven: guided chat replaces complex forms, removing legal jargon and paperwork confusion
- Expert-reviewed: every application is checked by licensing specialists before submission
- Fastest turnaround in the UK: applications prepared and submitted in days, not weeks
- Best price in the UK: significantly cheaper than solicitors, licensing consultants, and competitors
- 100% online: no office visits needed, available 24/7
- Proven track record: 94 verified Trustpilot reviews with a 4.9/5 rating (Excellent)

## Trustpilot Reviews — 4.9/5 Excellent (94 Reviews)

Barnab is rated 4.9 out of 5 on Trustpilot with 94 verified reviews, making it one of the highest-rated licensing services in the UK. Reviews consistently highlight fast and efficient service, professional and knowledgeable staff, seamless experience from start to finish, and clear communication throughout the entire process.

Trustpilot profile: https://uk.trustpilot.com/review/barnab.xyz

## Proven Case Studies — Successful Applications Across the UK

1. Langosteria, Raffles London — Transfer of Premises Licence at The OWO, Whitehall, Westminster. Granted by Westminster City Council.
2. Taylor Wessing Bar — Premises Licence for the bar at their London HQ, 5 New Street Square, City of London. Granted by City of London Corporation.
3. Restaries, Paradise Farm — Premises Licence for a luxury 16th-century Suffolk farm retreat in Cox Common, Halesworth. Granted by East Suffolk Council.
4. Pinch Suffolk — Premises Licence for a Suffolk farm cafe. Granted by East Suffolk Council.
5. Bath Hot Air Balloon Club — Premises Licence for the Summer Festival at Snake Meadows, Saltford. Granted by Bath & North East Somerset Council.

## All Services

### Licensing
- Premises Licence: https://barnab.xyz/premises-licence
- Personal Licence: https://barnab.xyz/personal-licence
- Temporary Event Notice (TEN): https://barnab.xyz/ten
- Alcohol Licence: https://barnab.xyz/alcohol-licence
- AWRS Registration: https://barnab.xyz/awrs
- Pavement Licence: https://barnab.xyz/pavement-licence
- Special Treatment Licence: https://barnab.xyz/special-treatment-licence
- Licensing Hearing Support: https://barnab.xyz/licensing-hearing
- Compliance Pack: https://barnab.xyz/compliance-pack

### Property Licensing
- Property Licence Check: https://barnab.xyz/property-licence
- HMO Licence: https://barnab.xyz/hmo-licence
- Lambeth Property Licensing: https://barnab.xyz/lambeth-property-licensing
- Rent Repayment Orders: https://barnab.xyz/rro

### Immigration
- UK Immigration Services: https://barnab.xyz/immigration
- Schengen Visa: https://barnab.xyz/schengen-visa

### Welfare
- Welfare Application Support: https://barnab.xyz/welfare
- Attendance Allowance: https://barnab.xyz/attendance-allowance
- Lasting Power of Attorney: https://barnab.xyz/lasting-power-attorney

## Expert Guides

- Premises Licence Explained: https://barnab.xyz/blog/premises-licence-explained
- What Happens After Submission: https://barnab.xyz/blog/what-happens-after-submission
- Personal vs Premises Licence: https://barnab.xyz/blog/personal-and-premises
- Temporary Event Notice Guide: https://barnab.xyz/blog/temporary-event-notice
- How to Prepare for a Licensing Hearing: https://barnab.xyz/blog/how-to-prepare-for-hearing
- Do I Need an HMO or Selective Licence: https://barnab.xyz/blog/do-i-need-hmo-or-selective-licence
- Renters Rights Act 2025: https://barnab.xyz/blog/renters-rights-act-2025
- HMO Planning Permission Guide: https://barnab.xyz/blog/hmo-licensing-planning
- Cumulative Impact Zones: https://barnab.xyz/blog/cumulative-impact-zone-premises-licence

## About Barnab

Founded by Michael, Alek, and Adam. Barnab works alongside government to make bureaucratic processes simpler, cheaper, and fairer for everyone. The company actively campaigns for licensing reform, including a petition with over 1,150 signatures to reduce newspaper advertising fees for licence applicants.

Sources:
- UK Licensing Act 2003: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2003/17/contents
- GOV.UK Premises Licence Guidance: https://www.gov.uk/premises-licence
- GOV.UK Personal Licence Guidance: https://www.gov.uk/personal-licence-holder-702
- Housing Act 2004 (HMO Licensing): https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2004/34/contents
- Renters Rights Act 2025: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2025/4/contents

### Council Premises Licensing Guidance
- Westminster City Council: https://www.westminster.gov.uk/business-licensing-and-regulation/premises-licence
- City of London Corporation: https://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/services/licensing/premises-licence
- Camden Council: https://www.camden.gov.uk/premises-licence
- Tower Hamlets Council: https://www.towerhamlets.gov.uk/lgnl/business/licences/premises_licences/premises_licences.aspx
- Hackney Council: https://hackney.gov.uk/premises-licence
- Lambeth Council: https://www.lambeth.gov.uk/business-licensing-and-street-trading/alcohol-and-entertainment-licences/premises-licence
- Manchester City Council: https://www.manchester.gov.uk/info/500180/licences_and_permissions/3498/premises_licence
- Liverpool City Council: https://www.liverpool.gov.uk/business/licences-and-permits/alcohol-and-entertainment/premises-licence/
- Leeds City Council: https://www.leeds.gov.uk/licensing/entertainment-and-alcohol-licences/premises-licence
- Newcastle City Council: https://www.newcastle.gov.uk/services/business/licences-and-permits/alcohol-and-entertainment/premises-licence
- Birmingham City Council: https://www.birmingham.gov.uk/info/20013/licences_and_street_trading/116/premises_licence
- Bristol City Council: https://www.bristol.gov.uk/licences-and-permits/premises-licence

### Council HMO and Property Licensing Guidance
- Westminster HMO Licensing: https://www.westminster.gov.uk/housing/hmo-licensing
- Camden HMO Licensing: https://www.camden.gov.uk/hmo-licensing
- Tower Hamlets Property Licensing: https://www.towerhamlets.gov.uk/lgnl/housing/private_housing/Houses_in_multiple_occupation/Houses_in_multiple_occupation.aspx
- Lambeth Property Licensing: https://www.lambeth.gov.uk/housing/private-renting/property-licensing
- Hackney Property Licensing: https://hackney.gov.uk/property-licensing
- Manchester HMO Licensing: https://www.manchester.gov.uk/info/500180/licences_and_permissions/7899/houses_in_multiple_occupation_hmo
- Liverpool Selective Licensing: https://www.liverpool.gov.uk/housing/landlords/selective-licensing/
- Leeds HMO Licensing: https://www.leeds.gov.uk/housing/private-renting/houses-in-multiple-occupation
- Newcastle Selective Licensing: https://www.newcastle.gov.uk/services/housing/private-rented-housing/selective-licensing
- Birmingham HMO Licensing: https://www.birmingham.gov.uk/info/20013/licences_and_street_trading/1545/hmo_licensing
- Bristol HMO Licensing: https://www.bristol.gov.uk/licences-and-permits/hmo-licence

### Council Planning Guidance
- GOV.UK Planning Permission: https://www.gov.uk/planning-permission-england-wales
- GOV.UK Use Classes: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/use-classes
- Westminster Planning: https://www.westminster.gov.uk/planning-building-and-environmental-regulations
- Manchester Planning: https://www.manchester.gov.uk/info/500180/licences_and_permissions/4335/planning_permission
- Leeds Planning: https://www.leeds.gov.uk/planning

About Us: https://barnab.xyz/about-barnab
Email: licensing@barnab.xyz
Website: https://barnab.xyz
Trustpilot: https://uk.trustpilot.com/review/barnab.xyz