Homes in multiple occupancy - application form and guidance
Legislation which came into effect on 1st October 2000 introduced the mandatory licensing of Houses in Multiple Occupation. It is now a criminal offence to operate an unlicensed House in Multiple Occupation and subject to a conviction and a fine of up to £50,000.
The Council is required by law to licence any House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) which is the principal residence of three or more unrelated persons. The aim of the licensing scheme is to increase the protection for tenants and neighbours by making sure accommodation is safe, well managed and of good quality.
HMOs include:
shared flats and houses
bedsits
lodgings and communal accommodation such as student residences, hostels and staff accommodation.
The Private Rented Housing Team act as a single point of contact for all matters relating to licensing of HMOs (and cases for landlord registration). The teams duties include:
* Co-ordinating all inspections of the premises
* Dealing with complaints
* Enforcement where there is a breach of licence conditions or operation of an HMO without a valid licence.
More information
If you would like a paper application sent to you by post then please contact the Private Rented Team on 01786 443177 or email us.
Neighbourhood Objections and Complaints
Neighbours may raise an objection to a new or renewal application should they consider the landlord or manager is not a fit and proper person, or the premises are not suitable for use as an HMO.
The neighbours may also complain at any time to the Council if they consider an existing licensed HMO is causing undue public nuisance or is a threat to public order or safety, or that the landlord or manager is no longer a fit and proper person.
All first time HMO applications will be determined by the Council's Regulatory Functions Panel, which is a panel made up of Elected Members. All renewal applications are generally dealt with under delegated authority.
Complainants and objectors will receive at least 7 days notice should they wish to appear and be given the opportunity to speak to the Regulatory Functions Panel.
Please note that if you are applying for an HMO licence for a property that has never operated as an HMO in the past, you may require planning consent. We highly recommend that you speak with the Planning Officer before submitting your HMO application. The Planning Officer can be contacted on 01786 442773.
Decision Process
Your HMO application will be considered within 3 months and the Council has to make a final decision on your application within 12 months.
The extended period is to allow the applicant additional time to obtain any permissions, or to carry out any necessary work that may be required to bring the property up to standard before the licence is issued.
Application Pack and Other Guidance
Application Form - for the Grant and/or Renewal of licence for a HMO
Public Notice - this must be displayed outside the property the same day you submit your application for 21 days.
Certificate of Compliance - must be returned after 21 days of displaying the public notice
Supplementary Planning Guidance
Landlords Guide to Electrical Safety in Scotland
Fire Equipment and Training Log
General Content of an Emergency Plan
Practical Fire Safety Guidance for Small Premises Providing Sleeping Accommodation
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