Reading Council Considers Stricter Regulations for HMOs Amid Concerns

Reading Borough Council (RBC) in Berkshire is contemplating the imposition of tighter regulations affecting buy-to-let landlords, particularly targeting houses in multiple occupation (HMOs), following concerns raised about various issues associated with these properties. A recent council study highlighted problems such as anti-social behavior, substandard living conditions, and waste collection issues linked to HMOs, prompting the council to initiate a consultation on potentially implementing stricter rules.

Currently, only HMOs accommodating five or more occupants require a license, but the proposed consultation could extend regulations to cover smaller HMOs housing between three or four individuals. The move aims to ensure better oversight of properties and uphold standards of safety and accommodation quality across the borough. HMOs serve as a flexible and cost-effective housing option for students, newcomers, and professionals in Reading, according to the council, with approximately 3,000 such properties in the area.

The existing licensing requirements for larger HMOs mandate submission of annual gas safety certificates, installation and maintenance of smoke alarms, and availability of safety certificates for electrical appliances. Council officials believe extending these rules to smaller HMOs will contribute to maintaining a high standard of accommodation and identifying responsible landlords. However, concerns have been raised about the potential complexities and costs associated with implementing such licensing schemes, although supporters emphasize the importance of ensuring that HMOs never compromise residents' well-being.

Source: BBC News