Houses in Multiple Occupation (HIMOs)

What is an HIMO?

The Housing Act 2004 introduced, on 6 April 2006, a new definition of HIMO. The definition still includes reference to 'persons who do not form a single household', however, the term 'household' is now explained in detail.

The main change is that sharers cannot be a single household, with the result that all types of shared houses and flats, e.g. houses occupied by workmates, friends or students, will all now be HIMOs. There are a number of exemptions specified in the Act, these include premises managed by certain organisations, i.e. housing association, those occupied by their owners and family and up to two other people and premises occupied by two unrelated people.

HIMO Licensing

Information about licensing is available in the booklet 'A Guide to the Licensing of a House in Multiple Occupation'. licensing@communities.gsi.gov.uk

The Council is also adopting a HIMO Licensing Policy, which explains the standards that apply and the matters the Council will take into account when a licence application is assessed. Licence application forms are available from the Private Sector Housing Team, telephone 01789 260851.

The Council will set standards for overcrowding and kitchens, as well as standards for washing and w.c. facilities. Fire safety requirements will be based on risk assessment, in conjunction with the Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Services.

Standards in non-licensable HIMOs will be set by the Council, but the need for any additional kitchen, washing or w.c. facilities will be determined by the District's Private Sector Housing enforcement staff using the Housing Health & Safety Rating Scheme. rating.system@communities.gsi.gov.uk

The Management of HIMOs (England) 2006

These Regulations apply to HIMOs in England, but do not apply to converted blocks of flats to which Section 257, Housing Act 2004 applies. These are buildings that have been converted into and consist of self-contained flats when the building work undertaken in the conversion did not comply with the appropriate building standards and still does not comply and less that two-thirds of the self-contained flats are owner-occupied.

The Regulations place a number of duties and responsibilities on landlords, managers and, to some extent, occupiers (Regulation 10). The landlord/manager in particular is responsible for ensuring that:

• Fire protection measures are kept in good order
• Shared areas of the property, such as a w.c., kitchen or bathroom, are properly cleaned and maintained
• Gas appliances are tested annually
• Electrical installations are tested at least every five years and must provide the Council with a copy of the test certificate upon request
• Adequate facilties for refuse disposal
• Living areas are properly maintained and cleaned.

Landlords/Agents

Further Information

• Housing Act 2004
• The Licensing of Houses in Multiple Occupation (Prescribed Descriptions)(England) Order 2006
• The Licensing and Management of Houses in Multiple Occupation and Other Homes (Miscellaneous Provisions)(England) Regulations 2006

Tenants

Occupants of HIMOs have a right to expect their homes to be safe, well managed and reach appropriate standards. Tenants should not hesitate to contact us if they need advice on issues relating to their housing needs or if there are matters they need to report. Contact telephone number: 01789 260851.