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Houses in multiple occupation (HMOs)

HMOs must be licensed and meet higher standards than other private rentals. Make sure you understand the extra requirements for a landlord of a HMO. 

In this section

HMO definition

A house in multiple occupation (HMO) is a type of shared housing. Landlords of HMOs have extra legal responsibilities. 

A landlord of a HMO must have a valid licence before letting out the property.  

HMO licensing

You must have a HMO licence if you plan to rent to three or more people who are not related. It’s an offence to rent a house in multiple occupation without a licence. 

HMO standards

You need to show the council that you have proper management arrangements for your HMO. You also need to demonstrate that the accommodation meets certain safety standards. 

Problems with HMOs

The council will get involved if complaints are made about your HMO. It will investigate and can issue notices or even revoke your licence. 

Losing your HMO licence and appeals

The council takes breaches of licence conditions seriously. In some cases, it may take action to vary or revoke your licence.