HMO SUMMARY

– Rented to 5 or more people who form 2 or more households.
– Even if your property is smaller and rented to fewer people, you may still need a licence depending on the area.       Check with your council or contact Blackstones.
– A licence is valid for a maximum of 5 years, but you must renew your licence before it runs out

The council will issue a licence if it is satisfied that:

• The HMO is reasonably suitable for occupation by the number of occupants/households allowed under the licence and
• The proposed licence holder is a ‘fit and proper person’ and
• The proposed licence holder is the most appropriate person to hold the licence
• The proposed manager (if there is one) is a ‘fit and proper person’
• The proposed management arrangements are satisfactory and
• The person involved in the management of the HMO is competent
• Appropriate fire safety measures are in place such as smoke detectors, extinguishers etc
• Annual gas safety checks are up-to-date
• The electrical wiring and appliances have been checked and certified as safe every five years
• There are adequate cooking and washing facilities
• Communal and shared areas are kept clean and in good repair
• There are appropriate refuse storage and disposal facilities

If the council is not satisfied with the above, they may decide to refuse the licence or impose further conditions on the licence holder to, for example, make the property suitable.

If you have a HMO that requires licence, but you fail to make an application, you are committing an offence that carries a possible unlimited fine upon conviction. Alternatively, the council can issue a civil penalty up to a maximum of £30,000.00.