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HMO
PROVISIONS (Houses in Multiple Occupation)
In outline
the Housing Act 2004 introduces a mandatory national licensing scheme
for houses in multiple occupations throughout England and Wales. It is
now mandatory to license larger, higher-risk HMOs and the Government’s
present view is that these will be 3 storey properties with 5 or more
occupants which comprises two or more households.
Local Housing
Authorities will also have the discretion to extend licensing to other
categories oh HMOs to address particular problems that may exist in this
smaller properties, in their particular area, or indeed any other type
of rented housing where there are deemed to exist problems with either
bad landlords or bad tenants.
The Act also
provides for a new definition of an HMO, and limits the scope of
licensing and enforcement action, other than in relation to Housing,
Health and Safety Rating System, to certain types of HMOs within the
definition. A licence fee will be payable and a rate determined locally.
Controlling or managing an HMO which is not properly licensed will be a
criminal offence, plus there will be other civil penalties.
We are offering a free consultation service to all
landlords and will be happy to help you.
Please contact us on: 01905 617770 or
info@parkersonline.co.uk
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