- Proposal aims to make sure all privately rented HMOs meet appropriate standards, regardless of size.
- Over half of known HMOs in the borough currently fall outside mandatory licensing requirements.
- Residents, tenants, and landlords are encouraged to share their views by 20 August.
Tamworth Borough Council has today launched a public consultation to seek views on a proposal to introduce additional licensing for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) with three-four occupants.
A HMO is defined as a property occupied by three or more people forming two or more households who share facilities such as a kitchen, bathroom, or WC. While larger HMOs with five or more occupants must already be licensed by law, smaller HMOs currently fall outside this requirement.
In recent months, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of new four-bedroom HMOs being let in the borough. At present, there are 131 known HMOs locally, with a further 29 under review. However, due to the lack of a requirement to register smaller HMOs, the true number is likely to be higher.
Evidence shows that unlicensed HMOs can present serious issues, particularly around fire safety and safe means of escape, often due to a lack of awareness of legal responsibilities. These properties are typically only inspected if a complaint is made.
The proposed additional licensing scheme aims to address this gap by making sure all HMOs meet required safety and quality standards, enabling proactive inspections and stronger enforcement where necessary.
HMOs can provide an important source of affordable and flexible housing for a wide range of people in the borough. Students, young professionals, individuals on lower incomes, single or divorced people, and those seeking social interaction are just some of the groups who may choose this type of accommodation. The council recognises the valuable role HMOs play in meeting local housing needs, and the proposed licensing scheme is intended to support well-managed properties while helping make sure tenants have access to safe, good-quality housing.
Stephen Gabriel, chief executive for Tamworth Borough Council, said: “We are committed to making sure that everyone in our borough has access to safe, high-quality housing. The rise in smaller HMOs, many of which currently fall outside existing licensing rules, has highlighted a clear gap in how we regulate and support this sector.
“This consultation is an opportunity for residents, tenants, and landlords to have their say on proposals that aim to improve standards, protect renters, and promote responsible property management.
“I would strongly encourage everyone to take part and help shape the future of housing in our area.”
Take part in the online survey: https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/ZVLMEJ/
The survey will be open until 20 August, and all feedback received will help inform the future approach in Tamworth.