Hounslow Council Expands Controls on Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs)
Chiswick, London – Hounslow Council acts to raise housing standards in the borough. The council now plans to extend license controls for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). They want to improve safety and living quality. They also target antisocial behaviour near these homes.
A Move for Better Standards
The council works to fix housing standards in HMOs. In these homes, many households share a space. The license rule began on 1 August 2020 and ends on 31 July 2025. It covers properties with three or more people. This matters because one third of Hounslow residents rent privately.
Councillor Tom Bruce, Cabinet Member for Assets, Regeneration and Development, spoke on the move. He said, "We strive to give all residents safe, good homes. We work with landlords to fix property standards in HMOs. We will act strongly against those who ignore the rules."
This plan makes living spaces safer. The council also aims to cut crowding and antisocial acts that disturb communities.
Background and Legislation
The rule for HMOs comes from the Housing Act 2004. The law makes some HMOs require a license. It applies to homes with five or more people from two or more households. The law lets local groups set extra rules to keep housing conditions in check.
Recent events in London have shown a need for firm regulation. Some landlords have faced fines when poor safety led to accidents. These events show the risks when rules are not followed.
Enforcement Actions and Progress
Since the new license rules began, the council has taken many steps. They sent 937 warnings for enforcement actions. They collected 652 gas and electrical safety certificates. They also sent 135 notices to fix housing faults. In addition, they issued 51 fines to non-complying landlords.
By watching housing closely, the council wants to stop crowding and keep HMOs safe for their residents.
Public Participation and Feedback
The new license changes will cover HMOs with three or four people who share facilities. Some flats are split into several units without proper building approval. The council invites local residents to share their views. The consultation ends on Friday 16 May 2025. People can send their feedback through the Hounslow consultation portal or email if they use paper forms.
Councillor Bruce urged residents, "This rule helps cut antisocial acts and many social issues caused by tight living spaces. It affects everyone. Please join the conversation and speak up."
Summary
Hounslow Council wants to fix living standards in HMOs by expanding its license scheme. The council now checks smaller HMOs and uses strong enforcement. The aim is to make homes safer and to reduce crowding and antisocial behaviour. With public feedback open until mid-May 2025, local residents can shape these changes.
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By joining these talks and working for better conditions, Hounslow aims to build a safe and caring community for all its residents.
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