DISCLAIMER:
This duty is currently under review and has not yet been formally signed off by the relevant professional association. The information provided is for reference only and should not be treated as final or authoritative guidance. Please verify any decisions against approved sources or seek professional advice. Updates will be published once sign-off is complete.
Simple terms explainer
Councils are required to license certain Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), typically those with five or more people from different households sharing facilities. Properties are inspected to ensure they are safe, meet space and sanitation standards, and are managed by responsible landlords. Councils can take enforcement action against unlicensed or poorly maintained HMOs to protect tenants and uphold housing standards.
Legal status
Statutory
Duty category
Housing
Duty type
Compliance
Social determinant of health
Neighbourhood and environment
Emerging policy and legislation
0
Bodies with shared interest
Standards and frameworks
1