HMOs, or Houses in Multiple Occupation, are properties where at least three tenants live, forming more than one household and share facilities like kitchen, bathroom or toilet. In the UK, HMOs are subject to certain licensing requirements, which aim to ensure that tenants living in HMOs are safe and that the properties meet certain standards. In this article, we will explore the licensing requirements for HMOs in the UK.
What is an HMO?
An HMO is a type of property in which at least three tenants live, forming more than one household and sharing facilities such as a kitchen, bathroom, or toilet. HMOs are often found in university towns and cities, where students share a property to reduce living costs. However, HMOs are also common among young professionals and low-income families who cannot afford to rent a whole property on their own.
Licensing requirements for HMOs
In the UK, HMOs are subject to certain licensing requirements, which aim to ensure that tenants living in HMOs are safe and that the properties meet certain standards. The type of license required depends on the number of storeys in the property, the number of tenants living in the property, and the location of the property.
Mandatory HMO licensing
In England and Wales, an HMO requires a mandatory license if it meets all of the following criteria:
It has three or more storeys
It is occupied by five or more tenants who form more than one household
The tenants share one or more facilities, such as a kitchen, bathroom, or toilet
The landlord must apply for a license from their local authority before renting out the property. The license is valid for up to five years, and the landlord must ensure that the property meets certain safety and management standards.
Selective licensing
Selective licensing applies to all other HMOs that are not subject to mandatory licensing, but are located in areas where the local authority has introduced selective licensing schemes. These schemes require landlords to apply for a license before renting out the property, regardless of the number of tenants or storeys. The aim is to improve the management of HMOs in certain areas and tackle problems such as anti-social behavior.
Additional licensing
Some local authorities have also introduced additional licensing schemes, which apply to all HMOs in certain areas, regardless of the number of tenants or storeys. The aim is to improve the quality of HMOs in these areas and ensure that tenants are living in safe and well-managed properties.
Safety and management standards
Landlords of HMOs must ensure that the properties meet certain safety and management standards. These include:
Providing adequate fire safety measures, such as smoke alarms and fire extinguishers
Ensuring that gas and electrical appliances are safe and in good working order
Ensuring that the property is free from hazards that could pose a risk to the health and safety of tenants, such as damp or mold
Providing adequate waste disposal facilities
Ensuring that communal areas are clean and well-maintained
Ensuring that tenants are provided with a tenancy agreement and that their rights and responsibilities are clearly outlined
Penalties for non-compliance
Landlords who fail to comply with HMO licensing requirements or safety and management standards can face penalties, including fines and legal action. In some cases, the local authority may take over the management of the property or issue an emergency prohibition order, which prohibits the use of the property as an HMO.
Conclusion
HMOs are an important type of property in the UK, providing affordable housing for a range of tenants. However, they are also subject to certain licensing requirements, which aim to ensure that tenants are safe and that the properties meet certain standards.
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