Typically, no. The changing of a property’s use class from C3 (standard residential dwelling) to C4 (small HMO) will not result in the increase of the property’s Council Tax band in most instances/constituencies. However, the tax band may be increased (or decreased) if significant changes have been made to the internal structure of the property, …
Understanding HMO Licences: In the UK, there are two categories of HMO licences: ‘Mandatory’, and ‘Additional’, their meanings and uses are as follows: Mandatory Licensing This licensing type applies to all large HMOs, which are classified as a property that is occupied by five or more people from multiple households who share facilities. An HMO …
What is an Article 4 Direction in Property Planning? According to the Government Town and Country Planning Department, it can be defined as: “A direction under Article 4 of the General Permitted Development Order which enables the Secretary of State or the local planning authority to withdraw specified permitted development rights across a defined area.” …
Upgrade your HMO property and increase your rooms’ asking prices with these 4 tips: Use Outdoor Space – Outdoor space is just as important as the interior when appealing to long-term tenants. Seating and eating areas are popular, especially in the summer months. Kitchens and Bathrooms – These rooms are important and could be potential …
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The associated costs of converting a house into an HMO will greatly vary dependant on numerous factors including; Extending a property to increase the number of rooms Loft, side, rear and wrap-around extensions General building works Additional Bathrooms Additional Kitchens Fire safety implementations General decoration
HMOs with four occupants or fewer will generally not require licensing or planning permission. However, if there are five or more occupants – from two or more households who are sharing amenities such as a kitchen or bathroom, will typically require licensing, and may require planning permission. Every council is different and will have different …
The Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) replaced the former “fitness for human habitation” standard, as the new minimum standard for housing of multiple occupation. The HHSRS is concerned with removing potential hazards in any building and it imposes duties on Local Authorities to take action in the most serious cases. The Government has …
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If a landlord fails to continually meet the conditions of an HMO license without reasonable explanation you can face fines of up to £5,000. Serious breaches may also end with a license being revoked permanently.
An HMO licence generally lasts for a maximum period of 5 years. A Local Authority does reserve the right to grant a licence for a shorter period of time if it deems so necessary. Furthermore, licences are not transferable and if you purchase a property that is already a licensed HMO, the new Landlord will …
HMO licences come with conditions attached to ensure that the standards set for HMO’s are continually maintained. There are mandatory conditions that include; Annual Gas Safety certificates Electrical / appliance declarations Smoke alarm and fire regulations Tenancy agreements There are also conditions relating to the shared facilities in any HMO, the general management of the …
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