News

In a significant ruling in November 2024, two landlords operating in Sittingbourne, Kent, have been penalised with fines exceeding £25,000 due to serious breaches of housing regulations. This case underscores the critical importance of maintaining safety and compliance within Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), especially as the Swale Borough Council's housing enforcement team continues its commitment...

In Egham, Surrey, the plans for the expansion of Royal Holloway University have ignited a heated debate among residents. The proposal aims to increase the university's student population from over 12,000 to 15,000, sparking both support and significant opposition within the community. Proponents of the plan argue that the expansion could bring various benefits, including economic growth and enhanced...

In a curious turn of events, Howard Road in Southampton has become the focal point of local intrigue with the sudden appearance of makeshift double yellow lines that extend existing parking restrictions. These lines, painted in front of one of the houses designated as a house in multiple occupation (HMO), have left residents puzzled and concerned about their legality and origin. The unofficial markings...

In a significant development in Stretford, Aamer Shah has put forth a planning application that seeks to convert a two-bedroom semi-detached house into a ten-bedroom house of multiple occupation (HMO) on Barton Road. This ambitious proposal involves transforming the current structure into a three-storey building, equipped with additional bedrooms, shared living facilities, bathrooms, kitchens, and dining...

Westminster City Council has launched a new consultation regarding a proposed selective licensing scheme aimed at enhancing tenant safety in privately rented accommodation throughout London. This initiative seeks to solicit feedback from tenants, landlords, property agents, and various stakeholders involved in the private rental sector. The licensing scheme is designed to cover private rented homes...

In a bold move that has sent ripples through the political landscape, Nick Candy, a prominent entrepreneur known for his significant contributions to the UK property market, has joined Reform UK as its treasurer. This defection from the Conservative Party highlights a growing trend among notable political figures gravitating towards the emerging minor party, which is increasingly capturing public support....

In November 2024, Shelter Scotland has called for a significant overhaul in the leadership of the City of Edinburgh Council, citing serious concerns about its management of homelessness policy. The charity's demands come amid a mounting homelessness crisis in Edinburgh, where the city is grappling with the second-highest rate of homelessness in Scotland, affecting 5,250 households who are currently in...

In a decisive move against property neglect, Swale Borough Council has fined two landlords more than £25,000 for serious breaches related to their house in multiple occupation (HMO) in Sittingbourne, Kent. This case sheds light on the critical importance of adhering to HMO regulations which are designed to ensure tenant safety and comfort. Key Takeaways Overcrowding in HMOs can lead to significant...

In a bold move that has captured media attention and sparked public outrage, Shelter Scotland has called for the resignation of the City of Edinburgh Council leadership. The charity alleges that the council’s proposed use of unlicensed houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) for accommodating the homeless violates the rights of vulnerable individuals, undermining legal and human rights protections. This...

In North Belfast, the ongoing debate surrounding the conversion of traditional residential houses into Houses of Multiple Occupation (HMOs) has gained momentum, reflecting a community deeply invested in preserving neighborhood dynamics. This year has seen several noteworthy refusals, including a recent application for a property on Ponsonby Avenue, which faced significant pushback, primarily led by Sinn...