What is a HMO?
A HMO (House in Multiple Occupation) is an entire flat or house that is let to 3 tenants or more who live as two households or more and share a kitchen, a bathroom and/or a toilet. A full definition and possible exclusions may be found in the 2004 Housing Act, Sections 254 – 264 & Schedule 14.
Examples would be:
- Flats within a building with 3 occupants or more
- Houses (shared) with 3 occupants or more
- Owner-occupiers living with 3 lodgers or more
A household may consist of a single individual or several people, providing all of these people are members of one family, with half-relatives being treated as full family members/relatives. Foster children living with their foster parent/s are treated as living within the same household as their foster parent/s. Domestic staff members living rent-free within accommodation provided for them by the person/s they work for are also treated as part of the household.
What happens if you fail to apply for a HMO Licence
Failing to apply for a HMO Licence as and when required is an offence that is punishable upon summary conviction to a fine (unlimited). Alternative sanctions include issue of a Civil Penalty Notice (up to £30,000) or the offer of a Simple Caution. A local authority or tenants may apply for an RRO (Rent Repayment Order) to reclaim rent (up to 12 months’) from the landlord. This includes former tenants who were living at the property while it was unlicensed. Applications for RROs are made to the FTT (First-Tier Tribunal) (Property Chamber).
How can you get a HMO License?
We can help you get a HMO license. We are experts in HMO legislation, compliance and securing HMO license for our clients. We carry out the full licence application on your behalf, advising on any necessary upgrades required to make your property safe and compliant.
For further information on our services please contact us