Private Sector Housing

What is a 'House in Multiple Occupation'?

In simple terms a house in multiple occupation (HMO) is a building, or part of a building (flat),which:

• Is occupied by more than one household*, AND
• At least one of the households shares or lacks access to a basic amenity ("basic amenities" means a toilet. personal washing facilities or cooking facilities) AND
• Is occupied by the households as their main residence AND
• Is the sole residential use of the accommodation.

This includes bed-sits, houses partly converted into self-contained flats, hostels, accommodation above shops and shared houses and flats.

*  A shared household is defined as occupiers of the same family and includes spouses, co-habitees, same sex couples and any blood relative.

Houses converted into self-contained flats before 1991 and not in accordance with the 1991 Building Regulations will be HMO's.

Which HMO's need a licence?

The Housing Act 2004 introduced a requirement for HMO's to be licensed if they have:

• 2 or more households living in them*
• 3 or more storeys that can be lived in
• 5 or more tenants

How do I apply for a licence?

If you think that a property you own or manage needs a licence it is important that you contact us by telephoning 01543 464694.   The Private Sector Housing team will confirm the current charge for a licence.

To apply please download an application form.

Application form guidance notes are also available to download.

If you need assistance with your application we are happy to help.   Please contact us for free advice.

Non-licensed HMO's

Houses in multiple occupation that do not meet the criteria for a licence must be free of Category 1 hazards. 

Inspection of Houses in Multiple Occupation

These are carried out by Environmental Health Officers to access and enforce standards.   Inspections cover four main areas:

• Deficiencies that may cause health and safety hazards.
• Fire Protection - construction, means of escape and detection systems.
• Provision of amenities.
• Management responsibilities of landlord / person having control of the premises.

Standards of Management for Houses in Multiple Occupation

Regulations make provision for ensuring that the person managing a house in multiple occupation observes proper standards of management.

The manager is required by the Regulations to ensure the repair, maintenance, cleansing or, as the case may be, good order of -

• All means of water supply and drainage in the house
• Parts of the house and installations in common use
• Living accommodation
• Windows and other means of ventilation
• Means of excape and fire apparatus, systems and other things provided by way of fire precautions
• Outbuildings, yards etc. in common use

The manager is also required to -

• Make satisfactory arrangements for the disposal of refuse and litter from the house
• Ensuring the taking of reasonable precautions for the general safety of residents
• Display in the house a notice of the name, address and telephone number, if any, of the manager
• Provide specified information to the local housing authority about the occupancy of the house where the authority gives him written notice to that effect

Non compliance may be punishable on summary conviction by a fine not exceeding level three on the standard scale.

For advice on fire safety in HMO's we recommend that you read the Staffordshire Guide to Fire Safety in Houses in Multiple Occupation.