If you let a property to several people who aren't related, you may be running a House in Multiple Occupation, and that can mean you need a licence. Here's a plain-English guide for landlords in Barrow-in-Furness.
In England, a property is generally an HMO if it's let to at least three people who form more than one household and share facilities such as a kitchen, bathroom or toilet. A household is a single person, a couple, or members of the same family living together.
An HMO needs a mandatory licence if it's occupied by five or more people forming more than one household. In Barrow-in-Furness, licences are issued by Westmorland and Furness Council. A licence normally lasts up to five years and must be renewed before it expires.
Even if your HMO doesn't need a mandatory licence, HMO management regulations still apply, covering things like fire safety, the upkeep of shared areas and keeping the property in good repair. Councils can also introduce additional licensing for smaller HMOs, so it's worth checking the current position for your area.
Licensed HMOs must meet minimum bedroom sizes (6.51 square metres for one adult and 10.22 square metres for two), provide adequate kitchen and bathroom facilities and suitable waste storage, and have a valid gas safety certificate, an electrical installation condition report, working smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms where required and appropriate fire safety measures.
Operating an HMO that needs a licence without one is a criminal offence. Councils can issue substantial fines, and tenants may be able to claim back rent through a rent repayment order.
Lion Property Management specialises in HMO management in Barrow-in-Furness. We'll check whether your property needs a licence, help with applications and renewals, and keep everything compliant once it's let. Call 01229 846490 or request a call back.
This article is general guidance, not legal advice. Rules can change, so check current requirements with Westmorland and Furness Council.
