HMOs information for tenants
A House in Multiple Occupation (HMO), sometimes called a 'house share', refers to a property occupied by individuals who don't constitute a single household and share essential basic ammenities such as bathrooms, toilets, or kitchens.
Under Section 254 of the Housing Act, a property qualifies as an HMO if it houses 3 or more occupants who:
- Do not form a single household,
- Share one or more basic ammenities (kitchens, bathrooms and toilets), and
- Live in the home as their main place of residence.
The Council is responsible for the regulation of HMOs.
Minimum standards for an HMO
The Council can enforce standards in HMOs and take action if landlords do not co-operate. You can view all licensed HMO properties in the Borough on the HMO Licence Public Register.
The minimum standards provide guidance to tenants and landlords on what to expect in HMOs. They help ensure that HMOs meet a wide range of housing needs and provide good value for money. Many of these standards are expected in all HMOs whether they need a licence or not. If they are not met, the Council can serve a notice and use the Housing Health and Safety Rating system to ensure that the HMO is brought up to standard.
You can find more information relating to standards in The Licensing and Management of Houses in Multiple Occupation and Other Houses (Miscellaneous Provisions) (England) Regulations 2006 Schedule 3.
Tenant responsibilities
As a tenant you should:
- Report any repairs that need to be carried out to your landlord
- Comply with the conditions of your tenancy agreement
- Comply with arrangements for fire safety and refuse disposal
- Allow the landlord reasonable access to the property so they can carry out their duties
- Not use any dangerous electrical appliances
- Not deliberately damage anything that the landlord must keep in repair