An HMO is a house occupied by persons who do not form a single household such as bedsits, hostels and shared houses. These are properties where tenants share facilities such as bathrooms and kitchens and where living conditions can be stressful.
Houses in Multiple Occupation
HMO's are inspected by Environmental Health Officers (EHO's) to ensure they have proper fire protection, are not overcrowded and have the correct number of amenities for the number of occupants. In addition certain types of HMO need to be registered within the Council.
2004 Housing Act - Licensing of HMOs
The 2004 Housing Act comes into force in April 2006 and introduces compulsory licensing of larger, higher-risk Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). The government has issued an advisory leaflet for landlords which can be found on the link below.