What is a HMO?
A property is a HMO if all of the following apply:
- at least 3 tenants live there
- the tenants are not from one household
- the tenants share toilet, bathroom or kitchen facilities
It is a criminal offence to run a HMO without a licence. Landlords must apply to us for a HMO mandatory or additional licence.
For more information, go to HMOs that need a licence.
What is a household?
A ‘household’ is defined as members of the same family sharing domestic accommodation. This includes:
- married couples or non-married couples living together
- relatives living together
- half-relatives living with their relatives
- foster children living with their foster parent(s)
Domestic staff are also included as part of a household if they are living rent-free in accommodation provided by the person for whom they're working.
Residency status
A HMO is considered an only or main residence if your tenants are either:
- a student
- a migrant worker
- a domestic violence victim using it as a refuge
HMO property types
HMOs can be formed of:
- an entire house or flat
- a house converted into bedsits (or other non self-contained accommodation)
- a house converted into one or more flats
A HMO can also be a building converted into self-contained flats where:
- the conversion did not meet the the Building Regulations 1991 – Legislation.gov.uk
- more than one third of the flats are let on short-term tenancies
HMO legislation
You are required to comply with the following:
- Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) – GOV.UK
- Management of Houses in Multiple Occupation (England) Regulations 2006 – Legislation.gov.uk
Contact our Housing Standards team
Contact us if you want advice about HMO licences and the legislation.
Email: housing.standards@woking.gov.uk
Telephone: 01483 743 882