Every House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) should have:
- fire alarms and firefighting equipment in good working order
- fire escapes that are unobstructed
- water supply that is well maintained and uninterrupted (tanks covered and fittings protected from frost)
- a well maintained drainage system (including rainwater drainage)
- gas and electricity supply that are well maintained and uninterrupted (electrical wiring must be checked every five years)
- a hazard free living environment
- accommodation (including furniture) that is clean and in good repair at the beginning of occupation
- well maintained common outbuildings and yards
- secure and well maintained boundary walls and fences
- facilities and arrangements for responsible waste disposal
- well maintained common areas and fittings (clean, free from obstruction and in good decorative repair)
- adequate lighting, available at all times
Each unit of accommodation should have:
- fittings and appliances in good working order
- secure doors in good working order
- safe windows and ventilators in good working order
- adequate lighting available at all times
To reduce sharing problems and to ensure multiple occupancy homes are of a decent standard, landlords need a licence for a large House in Multiple Occupation (HMO). Email communityconnections@plymouth.gov.uk or call 01752 398500 if you're a landlord and need advice or guidance on licensing your property.
We're responsible for enforcing these standards and we inspect properties before a licence is granted or during the period of the licence. Inspections may also be part of an improvement programme or follow a complaint.
Email communityconnections@plymouth.gov.uk or call 01752 398500 if you're a tenant and have a housing or safety issue. Wherever possible we'll work with you and your landlord to improve the property but if this fails we can use enforcement powers.