Houses which are subdivided into flats, bedsits or individual rooms are known as Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). This type of rented housing can provide a valuable source of affordable accommodation, particularly for single or young persons with restricted housing choice.

However, HMOs often afford the lowest standard of accommodation with poor standards of repair, amenity and management. The risk and consequences of fire can also be significantly greater in these dwellings.

Because of this the Council's Residential Services Team target attention on Swindon's estimated 750 HMOs to ensure that they remain safe and suitable for their occupiers.

The Council has adopted HMO Standards concerning levels of occupation, minimum room sizes, provision of facilities and means of escape in case of fire.