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2009 news

HMO licensing - register or risk a £1200 fine

Wednesday 2nd June 2010.

If you're a landlord and you're renting out a three or more storey house to five or more tenants you need to apply for a new licence from your local council. The fee for the licence is just £75 but if you're caught evading the recent legislation, you could be fined up to £1200.

The new House of Multiple Occupation (HMO) Regulations have been designed to halt the transformation of family neighbourhoods into 'student ghettos' that have frustrated residents in areas such as the Polygon and Highfield in recent years.

Under current rules, consent to change the use of a property from a private dwelling to an HMO is only required for six or more tenants. But, from April 2010, landlords who want to let dwellings to three or more people will have to obtain planning permission first.

Talk to your local council to find out more about HMO licensing.

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