Buy to let question

IvorBiggun

I am thinking of buying a 3 bed house and converting it in 4 studios. Each studio would have its own kitchenette and bathroom. There would only be one gas/electricity meter with central heating etc. shared between all 4 dwellings.
Would the property still be considered one house for council tax, TV licence, internet etc. or would each studio require a separate council tax bill etc?
Any planning permission needed?
Does this fall under HMO regulations and would I need to obtain a licence?
Any other things I need to consider before spending a large chunk of my life savings on the property?

Thanks in advance.

marliepanda

Four separate dwellings sharing one electricity bill? Asking for trouble...

G_M

Who's gong to pay the utility bills? You? Or split 4 ways between the tenants... :eek:

will each studio have its own front door?
Will there be any shared areas (other than entrance hall)?

If I were you I'd be speaking to the Planning Dept. I suspect you need planning permission (as well of course as Building Regulations certification) and will need to register 4 seperate dwellings.

Proboby not a HMO though depends. Either 4 dwellings (= 4 council tax) or one dwelling (= HMO).

Fuzzyness

conversion into 4 bedsits would require planning permission.

pararct

Fuzzyness wrote: »

conversion into 4 bedsits would require planning permission.

Which you would need to show sufficient living space in each apartment and might need to demonstrate where they potential tenants will park and other such hoops they will make you jump through.

This is a serious undertaking you are considering here, you need professional advice starting with an architect to see if your plan for the number of flats is possible.

As a first step and before you get two far in ring or visit the local planning department and explain to them you are considering the conversion. Some local authorities will not allow large houses to be converted subject to where they are and how it fits in with the local plan.
If you get the nod that in principle they are not opposed then will be the time to seek professional advice.