Houses in Multiple Occupation

A house in multiple occupation (HMO) means a house that is occupied by persons who do not form a single household and where there is usually some sharing of facilities such as kitchen, bathroom or shared access. Examples of HMO include shared houses, bedsits and buildings converted into flats.

HMO properties play an important role in providing cheap and flexible accommodation in the private rented housing market. Unfortunately many of the worst housing conditions can be found in these properties and due to the nature of occupation and typical layout of the buildings can pose a significant fire risk to occupants.

Additional safety requirements apply to all HMO properties particularly relating to fire safety, overcrowding and provision of amenities. The Council actively identifies HMO dwellings and takes action to ensure they meet the current standards, larger HMO properties are subject to routine inspection.

In late 2004 the Government introduced a mandatory licence scheme for HMO's consisting 3 storeys or more and 5 or more occupants. If you own or manage such a property you should contact us with a view to registering your details, failure to apply for a licence  (114.45 KB) may constitute an offence punishable by fine of up to £20,000.

Further Information

For more information please view our on-line HMO advice leaflets on Multiple Occupation and Fire Safety or contact our Senior Property Standards Officer:

Kirstie May-Jones
Senior Property Standards Officer
Telephone 01386 565352 - between 9am-5pm, Monday-Friday
Email kirstie.may-jones@wychavon.gov.uk

Relevant Forms & Publications

• Houses In Multiple Occupation  (742.29 KB)
• Houses in Mulitple Occupation Policy  (185.59 KB)
• Houses in Multiple Occupation Licence Application  (114.45 KB)
• Houses in Multiple Occupation Fire Safety  (524.58 KB)
• Privat Sector Licensing a Guide for Landlords  (245.06 KB)