Houses in multiple occupation (HMO)

As a landlord you have certain responsibilities for maintaining safety standards in your properties. You may also need a licence to rent out larger properties.

If you have three or more unrelated tenants in one property (with shared bathroom and kitchen facilities), this is known as a house in multiple occupation, or HMO. There are extra safety requirements for HMO and you may need a licence.

All houses in multiple occupation (HMO) must meet certain standards for fire safety, amenities, management and general housing conditions as set out in the following guidance document.

•  HMO standards

All HMO should meet the following minimum requirements:

• The property should be maintained in a reasonable condition with adequate heating, lighting and ventilation.
• The property should be safe and secure.
• The property should meet the gas safety and fire safety standards for rented accommodation.

If we find any hazards we will notify the landlord in writing and advise of the actions they should take to address the problem. Landlords, owners and managing agents could face an unlimited fine if they do not cooperate.