Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO)

Houses in Multiple Occupation or HMOs are properties where more than one household live. An HMO is defined as a building or part of a building in which:

More than one household live and they share an amenity such as a bathroom or cooking facility
OR
More than one household live but not all of the flats are self contained
OR
All of the flats are self contained but do not meet the minimum standards required by the 1991 Building Regulations and at least a third of the flats are occupied under short tenancies

Why does the council inspect HMOs?

Tenants living in HMOs are more at risk than other groups in rented housing. HMOs are more likely to be in disrepair, poorly managed and at higher risk of fire.

The council carries out inspections of HMOs to make sure they are safe, fit to live in and meet the legal standards.

Does my HMO need a license?

HMOs with three or more storeys and five or more occupants must obtain a mandatory license. Habitable basements and attics will count as storeys.

To qualify for a license the property must be suitable for the number of occupants, have adequate facilities and fire precautions, satisfactory management arrangements and a fit and proper manager.

The license costs £500 for up to five units of accommodation and £25 for each additional unit.

More information

If you own or live in an HMO that does not require a license, the council can give you advice on how to make sure the property is safe. For further information or advice on HMOs, please contact housing.

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