HMO (House in Multiple Occupancy) is a type of housing that is shared by several tenants who each have their own separate tenancy agreement with the landlord. It is a popular form of housing in the UK and other countries, as it is often more affordable than renting a single-occupancy home. But does HMO apply to lodgers? Let’s take a closer look at this question.
What is an HMO?
HMO is a type of residential property that is shared by multiple tenants. It typically consists of multiple bedrooms and a communal living area. The landlord is responsible for providing adequate living conditions for the tenants, including the provision of safety and security.
HMOs are regulated by local authorities, who inspect them regularly and can impose fines or other penalties on landlords who fail to comply with the regulations. Landlords must also obtain a licence from their local authority in order to rent out an HMO.
Does HMO Apply to Lodgers?
In general, HMO regulations do not apply to lodgers. A lodger is a tenant who rents a room in a property owned by someone else and who shares the common areas of the property with the landlord. A lodger does not have exclusive possession of the property, meaning that the landlord retains control of the property and can enter the premises at any time.
However, if the lodger is renting a self-contained unit, such as a studio flat or an annex, then the landlord must comply with the relevant HMO regulations. This includes providing adequate safety and security measures and obtaining a licence from the local authority.
In summary, HMO regulations do not generally apply to lodgers. However, if the lodger is renting a self-contained unit, then the landlord must comply with the relevant HMO regulations in order to rent out the property. It is important for landlords to be aware of the regulations and to ensure that they are compliant at all times.
