What is a house in multiple occupation?
A house in multiple occupation (HMO) is a house which fits into any
of the following types:
- An entire house or flat which is let to 3 or more tenants who
form 2 or more households and who share a kitchen, bathroom or
toilet.
- A house which has been converted entirely into bedsits or other
non-self-contained accommodation and which is let to 3 or more
tenants who form two or more households and who share kitchen,
bathroom or toilet facilities.
- A converted house which contains one or more flats which are
not wholly self contained (ie the flat does not contain within it a
kitchen, bathroom and toilet) and which is occupied by 3 or more
tenants who form two or more households.
- A building which is converted entirely into self-contained
flats if the conversion did not meet the standards of the 1991
Building Regulations and more than one-third of the flats are let
on short-term tenancies.
In order to be an HMO the property must be used as the tenants’
only or main residence and it should be used solely or mainly to
house tenants. Properties let to students and migrant workers will
be treated as their only or main residence and the same will apply
to properties that are used as domestic refuges.
The Council has specific powers to use in HMOs to ensure they are
kept in good repair and that there is no overcrowding, that
sufficient amenities are provided and that the property is properly
managed.
HMOs will need to have the electrical installation and appliances
tested every five years. Gas and electrical installation test
certificates must be made available to the Council within 7
days.
Larger HMOs will require a licence to operate. Generally speaking
this will apply to any HMO of three or more storeys that is
occupied by 5 or more people in two or more households.
For more information or help contact:
Waveney District Council
Environmental Health
Town Hall
High Street
Lowestoft
Telephone: 01502
523119