CPS Homes

An update on HMO and residential property licensing reforms

Update on HMO and residential property licensing reforms

Back in 2015, the UK Government published a technical discussion paper which proposed an extension to the mandatory licensing of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO). A consultation has since been held at the end of last year.

It is important to note that these proposals affect England only, but it is possible that Wales will follow suit with something similar in the future.

The proposals have been drafted by the government as a way of increasing the number of properties that require a HMO licence. They are:

  • To remove the storey rule, meaning all properties with 5 or more tenants (assuming they’re not a family) will require a HMO licence, regardless of how many storeys it has and where it is located.
  • To extend mandatory licensing to flats above and below business premises (regardless of storeys)
  • To set a minimum room size of 6.52m2 for one person (or 10.23m2 for two), derived from the overcrowding standard in the Housing Act 1985.

Originally, the government planned to introduce new regulations surrounding HMOs in April 2017, however, this deadline has since been changed, and the proposals are now expected to come into force in October 2017 instead.

Are you a Cardiff-based landlord confused about the new HMO regulations? If so, fret not, here at CPS Homes, our lettings team know HMOs like the back of their hands! To find out how we can help with all your HMO queries, get in touch today on 02920 668585, email: enquiries@cpshomes.co.uk or pop into our Woodville Road office in Cathays.

15 March 2017

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