What is an HMO? HMO stands for house of multiple occupation and it’s covered by different standards from traditional tenancies. Being a tenant in an HMO can also be a different experience from a normal house share. 

Let’s take a closer look.

What is an HMO?

An HMO is a house of multiple occupation. In an HMO, at least three tenants live there and they form more than one household. The word “household” might refer to a single person, a couple who share their finances or a family. As with a traditional tenancy, each tenant has the use of their own bedroom, as well as communal areas including the kitchen, bathroom and lounge.  

HMO status does not relate to the type of tenancy you have. For example, tenants in an HMO might have a joint tenancy where they share responsibility, or have a separate tenancy for each room. 

How is letting an HMO different from a regular tenancy?

If you’re a private landlord and you’re thinking of letting to more than five people, or allowing more than one household to live in your property, you might need to apply to your local authority for an HMO license. Rules and prices vary depending on your local authority, but in Guildford where Cobbles are based, you need a license if you let to five or more people who live as more than one household.  

Standards and licenses for HMOs

An HMO property must meet certain standards. Bedrooms have a certain minimum size, and communal areas must be large enough for use by as many people as live in the property. 

In addition to ensuring standards are met and the property is safe, having a license helps landlords too. Without a license, landlords are operating illegally which means they don’t have the power to evict tenants. They can also be ordered to repay the rent and be banned from letting other properties in future. 

You can find full details on the Guildford Borough Council website here. If you’re not in the Guildford area, please check with your local council as rules vary. 

Safety regulations for HMOs

HMO landlords need to adhere to stricter regulations than regular private landlords. You must have the electrics checked every five years and the gas every year. You must also provide fire alarms and fire extinguishers and ensure that tenants could safely escape in the event of fire.

Guildford Borough Council have full details of room size and fire safety requirements on their website here.

EPCs are a slightly grey area when it comes to HMOs, and largely depend on whether you let rooms on individual contracts or all the residents have a joint tenancy. If you’re in any doubt, check with the council when you get your license. 

Let property in Guildford

If you have property to let in the Guildford area, whether you plan to let it as an HMO or to just one household, Cobbles are here to help. Benefit from our great local knowledge and experience with the Surrey property market. To find out more, give us a call today on 01483 457 000 – we’d love to hear from you.