Homes in Multiple Occupancy

The Housing Act 2004 has introduced a new definition of a ‘house in multiple occupation (HMO)’. The interpretation is complex but can briefly be summed up as a building or part of a building consisting of one or more units of living accommodation, or a self-contained flat; occupied by persons who do not form a single household and where there is some sharing of the basic amenities (washing facilities, toilets, kitchens). The main effect of this is to include shared student housing within this definition.

The Government intended that only high risk HMOs be subject to licensing. They are identified as those properties which comprise three storeys or more, and house five or more persons who form two or more households. A household can be a single person. Regulations to control the management of HMO's have also been introduced and they apply to all categories of HMO.

As at April 2009 approximately 1500 applications for a licence have been received and work is continuing to identify properties which should be licensed but are not.

View Online HMO Licensing Applications Details, Associated documents and Decisions  (updated daily)

The Local Authority must grant a licence if it is satisfied that

• The house is reasonably suitable for occupation by the number of households or persons applied for or determined by the LA having regard amongst other things to the provision of amenities and facilities.
• The proposed licence holder or manager is a fit and proper person and is the most appropriate person to hold the licence.
• The arrangements for managing the house are satisfactory.

There is a fee payable by the landlord to cover the cost of administering the scheme and inspecting the properties to ensure that they meet the relevant standards. This is currently £1167.00 for a five bed property. The Government have set minimum standards for the provision of amenities and the local authority has set additional requirements which can be attached as conditions to the licence.

The Council operates an Accreditation Scheme for Shared Housing and HMOs the purpose of which is to raise standards of accommodation on a voluntary basis. It is open to both licensable and non-licensable HMOs and is free to join.

Application Form and Guidance

• HMO Licensing Application Form
• Standards & Guidance of HMO Licensing
• Minimum Standards for HMO Licensing
• A guide to the Licensing of HMO's

If you are a landlord or tenant and would like more information about HMO licensing please contact the HMO team on 0191 211 6102.