Housing
HMO OVERVIEW
Houses in multiple occupation are houses that are occupied by persons who share something, usually a kitchen or bathroom and WC. These houses are usually converted into bedsitting rooms and the occupants only have exclusive use of their room and so have to share something with other occupants. As well as bedsits, some groups choose to share, such as students, young professionals or households who offer a room or two to lodgers who share the facilities in the house with the main household. Hostels which house vulnerable groups fall into this category.
HMOs have been subject to regulation because of the increased risks and problems associated with sharing in this way. Fire safety is important too, as statistics show that fires are more likely to start and take hold in an HMO. Council officers inspect HMOs on a regular basis to check standards relating to:
- Fire safety
- Gas and electrical safety
- Good management
- Cleanliness and maintenance of common areas
- Repairs and decoration
Certain HMOs must be licensed in order to operate. Larger, three storey HMOs which have five or more occupiers are subject to licensing. More information can be found by following the link at the end of this page.
If you live in an HMO, if you only have exclusive use of your room but share the rest of the house, including the kitchen and/or bathroom facilities, then you need to understand that the house has to meet certain basic safety and repair standards defined by law and contained in the Council’s Good Practice Guide for HMOs. A copy of this guide can be obtained by contacting the HMO team on 01234 221763 or downloaded here
If you own or manage an HMO then this Guide contains useful and practical advice about improving your property and maintaining it to the standard required by law.
Houses in multiple occupation provide a valuable first rung on the housing ladder for young people. For those who want flexible short term accommodation then renting a bedsit is an ideal way to keep costs down. Many occupants find it convenient that the landlord has the responsibility for the shared accommodation, such as the repair and maintenance of the kitchen and bathroom. For most occupants, the economical cost of living in a bedsit or shared house is an important factor in choosing this type of accommodation. If you rely on housing benefit to help pay the rent then the level of benefit can determine what you can afford.
Bedford Borough Council supports and encourages good practice from HMO landlords and tenants, through the Landlords’ forum, which is a biannual information and networking event for local landlords.
The Council recognises the vital contribution that this form of letting provides, particularly for young people. If you have a question about HMOs you can contact the HMO team by email
HMO team You can talk to the HMO team by telephoning the HMO hotline on 01234 221763
Please click here to view Frequently Asked Questions regarding Houses in Multiple Occupation and Rented Accommodation