Councils in Yorkshire are intensifying efforts to regulate Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs).
- A rise in illegal HMOs has prompted councils to introduce stricter licensing and regulations.
- The new measures aim to improve the private rented sector and address community concerns.
- Significant implications for landlords include potential legal actions and financial penalties.
- Experts advise property owners to consult with legal professionals to navigate these changes.
In response to the increasing popularity of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), Yorkshire councils have ramped up efforts to regulate these properties. More than 400,000 HMOs currently exist in the UK, and new licensing schemes are being implemented to ensure compliance and improve the Private Rented Sector (PRS). This initiative is driven by councils’ desire to both enhance community welfare and ensure landlords adhere to their legal obligations.
HMOs, defined under The Housing Act 2004, are properties rented out by three or more tenants forming more than one household, sharing essential facilities. Licensing is mandatory for such properties with five or more people in England. As illegal HMOs rise, councils have warned landlords of severe consequences, including unlimited fines and potential prosecution, for unlicensed properties.
The City of York has issued a supplementary planning document to manage HMO concentrations, addressing local concerns about neighbourhood impacts and increasing rental costs. From April 2023, stricter licensing criteria apply to certain wards in York, requiring all HMOs with three or four tenants to have a licence. Additionally, areas like Bolton are coordinating campaigns involving planning permissions and council tax adjustments to rein in the number of HMOs.
Licensing requirements for HMOs vary by property size and location, affecting traditional bedsits, hostels, and converted buildings. A licence, enduring up to five years, confirms compliance with minimum standards. This document is non-transferable, linking to the property manager rather than the property itself.
Prospective HMO owners must consider zoning laws to secure the appropriate planning consent for large HMOs, defined as housing seven or more individuals sharing facilities. Consulting with residential property experts is strongly recommended to navigate the complex legal landscape.
Councils in Yorkshire are taking decisive action to manage and regulate HMOs, shaping the future of the rental market.
