This is really boring but I cant find the answer, please help!
A HMO licence is required when 3 or more unrelated people are living together- i get that bit.
But what if two of the people are an unmarried couple? does this count as related?
To clarify, if i wish to live with my boyfriend and one other person, do we need a HMO licence?
I think this will depend a good deal on the tenancy arrangements.
If all three are counted as seperate tenants, in seperate accommodation, then the HMO licence will be required.
If the couple are living under the same tenancy agreement, ie the same part of the building and sharing the rent and responsibility then this would most likely be classed as ‘family’.
If you are living with the owner, then HMO is not required, you have not made it clear whether the owner is any of the current occupants, and this can make a big differance.
Well the first question is; are you the landlord? If you’re not the HMO application is not your responsibility. It’s the owner’s.
Second question; is any of the three people mentioned the owner? In that case the owner doesn’t count and you only have 2 people involved. You need 3 for HMO.
If you and your boyfriend are living together, that counts as one ‘family’. You need 3 from different ‘families’. So again HMO doesn’t apply.
Read this. It’s the guidelines for landlords.
wow! I cant believe i got an answer. The straight dope can teach you anything.
Thanks for your help, it really useful. There seems to be quite a difference in rent depending on whether the property has a licence or not.
Serious flat hunting will begin this week, however unwilling the boyfriend is to help!