Houses in Multiple Occupation

The Council is responsible for checking Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) to make sure they are in a satisfactory condition, are safe, have satisfactory means of escape from fire, have sufficient bathrooms and kitchens, have adequate space and proper management.

What is an HMO?

A House in Multiple Occupation is a house, which is occupied by people who do not form a single household. Examples include:

• A house let as individual bedsitting rooms
• A group of rooms on each floor let to single occupants
• Hostels, some hotels, guesthouses
• Lodgings, and shared houses
• Houses converted into self-contained flats

What are the Standards?

HMO will have to meet the Council's standards. These standards include:

• means of escape in case of fire and other fire precautions
• amenities such as kitchens, bathrooms toilets and wash hand basins
• overcrowding with regards to the number and size of rooms
• general fitness for occupation
• management standards gas safety
• furniture fire safety

HMO Licensing

The Government will soon be introducing a licensing scheme with respect to certain houses in multiple occupation.

All the latest information can be found on: http://www.propertylicence.gov.uk. 

Further information on HMO Licensing and an application form.