This information is for private landlords. Private tenants can find information and advice here.
You will need to show the council that you have proper management arrangements for your HMO.
You’ll also need to demonstrate that the accommodation meets certain safety standards.
HMO management standards
The council will check whether the person(s) managing the HMO:
- is competent to do so
- is a fit and proper person
- is registered with the Landlord Registration Scheme
- has appropriate management and financial structures in place
HMO code of practice
The council will expect you, and the property manager, to follow the code of practice for the management of houses in multiple occupation.
The code of practice covers issues such as:
- accommodation standards
- electrical, gas and fire safety
- responsibility for repairs
- cleaning and disposing of rubbish
- information that must be given to tenants
You must display a copy of the code in your property.
How the HMO code of practice applies to tenants
Your tenants also have responsibilities under the HMO code of practice. You must give tenants a copy of the code and make sure they understand it.
Tenants must:
- allow the HMO manager reasonable access
- follow the HMO manager’s instructions on disposing rubbish
- provide the HMO manager information needed to comply with the code of practice
Tenants must not:
- stop or obstruct the HMO manager from carrying out their duties
- use portable gas appliances
- damage the property
Give tenants a written warning if they do not follow the code of practice. You may be able to end the tenancy if they regularly break the code of practice.
HMO living accommodation standards
As well as meeting minimum property standards, a house in multiple occupation has to meet extra standards to get a HMO licence.
Meeting these living accommodation standards reduces the risk of fire and makes sure people living in shared housing have safe facilities.
Lighting
Ventilation
Heating and plumbing
Electrical safety
Bathing and toilet facilities
Preparing and storing food
Dealing with rubbish
Fire safety equipment
Decoration
Properties that do not meet HMO standards
Your tenants can ask the council to inspect the property if they think it falls below these standards.
If the council finds that the property is not suitable for use as a HMO, your licence could be revoked.