Houses in multiple occupation and residential property licensing reforms – An Update
On 28th December 2017 the Government published its response to its consultation paper on HMO reforms, which can be found at:
In short, it is proposed in England – subject to parliamentary approval to:
o Extend mandatory licensing to all HMOs (other than section 257 HMOs and flats in larger purpose built blocks) that are occupied by 5 or more persons in to or more separate households
o Introduce mandatory conditions in all licensed HMOs concerning minimum sleeping room sizes and maximum number of occupants;
o Introduce a mandatory condition in all licensed HMOs concerning the provision of refuse storage facilities.
If you have any queries on this please email HMOLicensing@communities.gsi.gov.uk
It is worth noting that DCLG will need to introduce secondary legislation so there is another hurdle to clear before the changes can come into effect. DASH will let you know if we hear anything further about the timetable.
