Houses in multiple occupation (HMO)

All properties meeting the HMO definition need to ensure that they comply with the Management of Houses in Multiple Occupation Regulations 2006. These regulations, produced by the government, require anyone who manages an HMO to observe proper standards of repair, cleanliness and maintenance throughout the property.  They cover the water supply and drainage; parts of the house and installations in common use; living accommodation; windows and other ventilation; escape from fire and apparatus and systems for fire precautions, as well the general safety of residents.

The regulations also require occupiers of an HMO not to obstruct the manager of the property from carrying out their duties under the regulations.

All HMOs under these regulations are required to have the electrical installation inspected and tested every 5 years. The certificate produced is called an electrical installation condition report.

Non-compliance with the management regulations can result in fines of up to £5,000 upon conviction (as at October 2018). Local authorities are also able to issue landlords with civil penalty notices of up to £30,000 per offence as an alternative to prosecution.