Page last updated at 16:36 GMT, Friday, February 19 2010

Housing in Multiple Occupation (HMO) Licensing

Eastleigh Borough Council has introduced a mandatory licensing scheme as required by the Housing Act 2004.  the mandatory scheme came into force on 6th April 2006 and applies to all HMO's comprising of three or more storeys and occupied by five or more persons comprising of two or more households.

This is with the exception of the following:-

• Section 257 HMO's - (see our web page 'What is an HMO?' for further information) where a building has been converted into self-contained flats that do not meet the 1991 Building regulations and  less then 2/3rds are owner occupied.
• Buildings managed by educational establishments, Local Housing Authorities, Registered Social Landlords, Police, fire, Health Authority or regulated by other legislation such as residential care homes etc
• Buildings occupied by religious communities.

Mandatory HMO licensing aims to raise standards of accommodation in the private rented sector and to ensure that these properties have a decent minimum standard of management.

For a licence to be granted the Council must be satisfied that:-

• The proposed licence holder and any manager of the property is a fit and proper person.
• Proper management standards are being applied at the property.
• The HMO is reasonably suitable, or can be made suitable, for occupation by the number of tenants allowed under the licence.  to determine this the Council will consider the number, type and quality of bathrooms, toilets and cooking facilities available for the occupants.

If an HMO is operated without a licence, the person having control of, or person managing the dwelling is liable, on conviction, for a maximum fine of £20,000.

For more information and to obtain an HMO Licensing Information pack and HMO Licensing application form please contact Private Sector Housing on 023 8068 8301.

Further information on HMO licensing is also available on the Communities and Local Government website which can be viewed at www.communities.gov.uk