What is HMO (House in Multiple Occupation)?
As a London estate agent, we often come across landlords and tenants who are unsure about the term HMO. In this post, we will be discussing the concept of HMO, its legal requirements, and everything else you need to know.
An HMO, or House in Multiple Occupation, is a property that is rented out by at least three people who are not part of the same household but share facilities such as the kitchen or bathroom. This type of accommodation can be found in many forms, including shared flats, student housing, and boarding houses.
HMOs are regulated in the UK to ensure the safety and well-being of the tenants. The Housing Act 2004 sets out the legal requirements that all landlords must comply with when renting out an HMO property. Failure to meet these requirements can result in hefty fines and even imprisonment.
One requirement for an HMO is that the property must have a valid HMO license. Landlords of larger HMOs, which are properties with five or more tenants from two or more households, must obtain a license from their local council. The license applies to the property and not the landlord, so if you own multiple HMOs, you will need a license for each one.
The license ensures that the property meets certain safety standards, such as having adequate fire escapes and fire alarms, safe gas and electrical systems, and appropriate room sizes. The council will also inspect the property to ensure that it is suitable for the number of tenants and that there are adequate facilities for them.
Landlords of HMOs must also comply with various additional legal requirements, such as providing a written tenancy agreement, ensuring that the property is in good repair, and addressing any safety hazards that arise during the tenancy.
In summary, an HMO is a property rented out by at least three people who are not part of the same household and share facilities such as the kitchen or bathroom. If you are a landlord of an HMO, you must obtain a valid HMO license from your local council and comply with various legal requirements to ensure the safety and well-being of your tenants. As a tenant, renting an HMO can be a convenient and affordable option, but it is important to be aware of your rights and responsibilities as a tenant in this type of accommodation.
