Does this situation require an HMO license?

SteveCat

A guy has come to us with a 2 bed house with 3 tenants all looking to share. We normally do not bother with multi-lets but the Landlord has asked if we could credit reference them and prepare agreements. He also asked if he needs a license under the conditions stated i.e. 3 people to a 2 bed house?

Any help on this would be great, thanks!

amboy

No he doesnt need a licence, however the house will be classed as an HMO, which means he will have to adhere to fire safety, and HHRS etc

HTH

prudryden

SteveCat wrote:

A guy has come to us with a 2 bed house with 3 tenants all looking to share. We normally do not bother with multi-lets but the Landlord has asked if we could credit reference them and prepare agreements. He also asked if he needs a license under the conditions stated i.e. 3 people to a 2 bed house?

Any help on this would be great, thanks!

If the three are unrelated, then it will need to be registered as an HMO. Depending on the individual council, it may have to be licensed as well. Each council has certain discretion in this area.

However, if two of the sharers are partners or reasonably considered to be partners, THEN it is NOT an HMO as it is deemed to be two persons, rather than three. In fact, you can have two couples (total 4 people), and not be considered an HMO.

This is relevant to a 2 bed flat.
SOURCE: My council's web site.

SteveCat

Ok thanks to both of you for your replys. I have spoken to the LL a short while ago and his next question was: If his property is considered to need HMO licensing, will his local council need to inspect his property?