Shared Housing (HMO's)

Shared Housing (Houses in Multiple Occupation) (HMO) is defined as a building, not including purpose built flats or flat conversions with Building Regulation approval, containing more than 2 persons who are not related or in a relationship.  This includes all houses occupied by groups of, or a number of individuals, whether or not the rooms are rented individually or the house is rented by a defined group.

HMO's are recognised as housing some of the most vulnerable people in society, and for being in the worst categories for disrepair and living conditions.  HMO's are known to have a greater risk of fire, and a greater risk of injury from fire than other residential buildings.  For this reason they are subject to stringent safety regulations governing amenity and space provision, and for fire safety and management standards.

The legislation can be viewed by following these links: