Understanding HMO Property Licensing & Regulations
As a HMO landlord, you need to know all about the various HMO regulations that are applicable in Liverpool. HMO property licensing is just one key regulation that all HMO landlords should familiarise themselves with.
Every council has its own local authority HMO regulations when it comes to issuing house in multiple occupation licences. Therefore, as a landlord, you need to know how to meet your compliance obligations and why they are important, so that you don’t fall foul of the law.
Speak to us on 0151 329 3538 or email hello@portuslets.co.uk for help with HMO regulations in Liverpool.
What Are HMO Licences?
A HMO or House In Multiple Occupation is a rental property that is let to multiple unrelated individuals. Unlike a single-family dwelling, HMOs are not classified as single households. They typically have shared common areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, or living areas. Different local authorities specify varying numbers of tenants for a house share to qualify as an HMO. But HMOs that accommodate at least five people always require a licence, no matter where in Liverpool they are located.
How Does A HMO Licence Work?
To obtain a HMO licence for a property, a landlord must ensure that the local authority required standards are met. The bedrooms must all be at least the minimum size, there must be an appropriate number of facilities like waste bins, cooking and washing facilities for the number of tenants, and fire safety measures must be in place including functioning smoke alarms. Regular electrical and gas safety checks must be carried out. The local authority must also have undertaken a risk assessment on the property to ensure its suitability as accommodation for multiple households. Should any issues be identified during this assessment, they must be rectified before a licence is issued.
A landlord’s character must also be assessed to obtain an HMO licence. Councils check whether the individual is deemed to be “fit” to be a HMO landlord so, for example, if they have had a previous conviction, they may not be granted a licence.
Any landlord with multiple HMO properties in Liverpool, must get a licence for each property individually, and licences cannot be transferred between owners if the property is sold. Once awarded, a HMO licence is valid for five years.
What If I Don’t Get A Licence For My HMO Property in Liverpool?
HMO landlords are legally and morally responsible for following the regulations and obtaining a HMO licence for their property. If you fail to obtain an appropriate licence for your HMO, you could be fined an unlimited amount. Not only that, but you could also risk a banning order, a confiscation of your property or goods, or even imprisonment. Any non-compliant HMO landlord may also be required to repay the rent that they have received.
Managing HMO Landlord Obligations
The easiest and most effective way to manage your HMO landlord obligations is to use the services of a professional HMO property management company like The HMO Network. As experts in the field, we can help you with all your responsibilities, from finding and veting tenants to handling ongoing maintenance. Call us today on 0151 329 3538 or email us at hello@portuslets.co.uk to find out more.