Guidance for Landlords on HMO Standards in Sunderland

Our general guide for landlords and managing agents (pdf) contains general information on the licensing process, common questions and answers associated with the licensing process and an explanation of the fee involved.

All HMOs are subject to the Housing Act 2004 (opens new window), which uses the Housing Health & Safety Rating System (HHSRS) (opens new window). This is a risk-based evaluation tool to help local authorities to identify and protect tenants against potential risks and hazards to health and safety from any deficiencies identified in dwellings. If a Category 1 hazard is identified within a HMO the Local Authority must take formal action and may take action on category 2 hazards.

We have produced proposed guidance for landlords on HMO standards (pdf).  Should this guidance be followed and a property is maintained in good repair and condition then hazards identified within a HMO are not likely to be a Category 1 or high banded Category 2 hazard.