Multiple-occupancy homes
Information and details regarding registration and safety requirements for houses in multiple occupancy.
What is a house in multiple occupation?
A "house in multiple occupation" or HMO, is one that is occupied by people who do not form a single household and have to share basic amenities like a bathroom, toilet or kitchen.
HMOs generally provide affordable housing for many tenants who need it but they can also give rise to poor and unsafe living conditions. HMOs often accommodate the more vulnerable members of society.
The council has standards for all HMOs that are designed to help owners raise standards of accommodation across the private sector.
The Housing Act 2004 has introduced the mandatory licensing of higher risk HMOs from 5th July 2006. From this date owners and managers of these homes have to apply to the council for a licence and ensure their properties meet set standards of amenities, fire safety and management.
Which properties need licensing?
Not all HMOs need licences, only larger ones where there is likely to be a higher risk from fire. Those that need licences are where:
- they are houses, flats or parts of buildings of 3 or more storeys (including any habitable basements and attics and commercial premises, for example a maisonette over a shop) and
- they are occupied by 5 or more people in 2 or more households.
A household can be a family or related people, a co-habiting couple (whether or not of the opposite sex) or a single person. So a 3-story town house let to 5 students would need a licence.
What conditions have to be met for a licence?
The council have to be sure that:
- the proposed licence holder is a "fit and proper" person;
- proper management standards are being applied to the property;
- the HMO is reasonably suitable for occupation by the number of tenants to be licensed. To determine this, the council will consider the number, type and quality of bathroom, toilets and cooking facilities available for the occupants and that rooms meet minimum sizes.
Where do I get further information and an application form?
You should contact the private sector team who will be able to help you further with your enquiry.