House in multiple occupation

A house in multiple occupation (HMO) is a building, or part of a building such as a flat, that:

• is occupied by more than one household and where more than one household shares, or lacks an amenity, such as a bathroom, toilet or cooking facilities
• is converted self-contained flats, but does not meet as a minimum standard the requirements of the 1991 Building Regulation, and at least one third of the flats are occupied under short tenancies
• is occupied by more than one household and which is a converted building - but not entirely self-contained flats (whether or not some amenities are shared or lacking)

Houses in multiple occupation provide valuable, much needed, affordable accommodation. They can also be among the most dangerous places to live.

If you rent out a property for multiple occupation, you may require a licence from your local authority.

Eligibility criteria

Applications for licences must be made to the local housing authority. A fee may be charged. You must be a fit and proper person to hold the licence.

Regulation summary

A summary of the regulation relating to this licence

Application evaluation process

Licences will be granted if:

• the house is or can be made suitable for multiple occupation
• the applicant is a fit and proper person and the most appropriate person to hold the licence
• the proposed manager has control of the house, and is a fit and proper person to be the manager
• the management arrangements are satisfactory

Will tacit consent apply?

No. It is in the public interest that the authority must process your application before it can be granted. If you have not heard from your local authority within a reasonable period, please contact them. For property within Cheltenham Borough Council area contact us.

Apply online 

Apply for a house in multiple occupancy licence

Tell us about a change to your existing house in multiple occupancy licence

Failed application redress

Please contact your local authority in the first instance. For property located within Cheltenham borough please contact us.

You may appeal to a residential property tribunal. Any appeal must be made within 28 days of the decision being made.

Licence holder redress

Please contact your local authority in the first instance. For property located within Cheltenham Borough Council area contact us.

You may appeal to a residential property tribunal regarding conditions attached to a licence or any decision to vary or revoke a licence. Any appeal must be made within 28 days of the decision being made.