Standards of Houses in Multiple Occupation
Landlords must meet minimum standards in order to rent out a House in Multiple Occupation. This is to make sure that the property is safe, fit to live in and not overcrowded.
We expect HMOs to meet standards relating to room sizes, kitchen and bathroom facilities, and this affects the number of people who can live there. HMOs must also be free from hazards and meet fire safety regulations.
Fire Safety
All rented properties must be reasonably safe from fire, HMOs generally are more at risk from fire and so the requirements are greater. We enforce fire safety under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System and follow guidance issued by LACORS in determining what level of fire protection is required although the requirements may vary for each property dependent on risk.
Landlords of HMOs may also be required to carry out their own risk assessment, the LACORS guide has some details and further guides to fire risk assessment are available from the Department for Communities and Local Government.
Amenities
The number of cooking and washing facilities and the sizes of bedrooms will affect the number of people allowed to live in the house. We also take into account provision of electrical points, supply of hot and cold water, kitchen appliances, ventilation, lighting and heating. Find out more on the DASH website.
If a property does not meet the minimum standards or has too many occupants we will work with the landlord to reach a solution; we may serve a notice advising what changes needs to be made out and how quickly they should be completed.
Licensing of HMOs
Some HMOs need a licence from us, and we may attach conditions regarding the safety features and amenities to the licence when it is issued. Any HMOs that are on 3 or more storeys, including basements, must be licensed. Contact us for more information or to make an application.
If you have any questions about the standards and amenities requirements for HMOs please contact us, our details are below.
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