Multiple Occupancy Homes

Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) licensing aims to improve the standards of management and repair within HMOs.

It is now a mandatory duty for:

• All Local Authorities to have a licensing scheme
• Owners of certain types of HMOs to have a licence

HMOs present a particular problem in the rented sector and although there are many good landlords, there are some who are unable or unwilling to manage their properties properly.

The information here will help landlords decide if they need a licence, and explain how to get one.

What is a House in Multiple occupation?

A HMO is a building or part of a building which meets one of the following tests:

A- The Standard test

Any building in which two or more households share basic amenities. For example toilets, kitchens, and bathrooms.

B - The Self-contained flat test

Any flat in which two or more households share basic amenities. For example toilets, kitchens, and bathrooms.

C - The Converted building test

Any converted building comprised of one or more units of accommodation that are not self-contained.

D - Certain converted block of flats

Any converted building comprised of self-contained flats that does not meet the 1991 Building Regulation Standards, and less than two-thirds of the self-contained flats are owner-occupied.

Which Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) MUST have a licence?

If a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) fits:

• A. The Standard Test (see above), or
• B. The Self-contained flat test (see above), or
• C. The Converted building test (see above)

and,

• It is three or more storeys high (this includes basement and attic rooms); and
• It has five or more people living there, and
• Those in occupation make up more than one household (family unit).

The property MUST have a licence.

Licensed Properties

For information on licensed houses in multiple occupation please contact the Housing Improvement Team on 01843 577437 e-mail: housing.conditions@thanet.gov.uk

Housing Regeneration Team

E-mail:

housing.conditions
@thanet.gov.uk

Tel: 01843 577437