Licensing of private rented properties
Licensing: definitions
House in Multiple Occupation (HMO)
A House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) is a building, or part of a building, occupied by three or more people, in more than one household.
New laws have extended the definition of an HMO (for the purpose of licensing) to cover more property types. An HMO can be a shared house, a building split into bedsits or self-contained flats, bed and breakfast accommodation, a hostel, and many types of student accommodation.
Please note that this definition is for licensing. The definition of an HMO for Council Tax is different.
If you are not sure whether your property counts as an HMO, or for more information, contact us on 0161 245 7850.
Household
A household is a group of people who live together. They must be connected by marriage, civil partnership; or be a recognised couple (same sex, or opposite sex). Or they can be a family member - a child, parent, sister, brother, nephew, niece, or in-law for instance - or have another recognised connection like fostering or adoption.
People that live in the same place, but are not connected in this way, are not counted as a single household. So for example a group of five students or adult friends count as five households, even if they live at the same address.
Contents of Licensing of private rented properties
- About private landlord licensing
- Landlord: do you need a licence?
- Selective licensing: specific areas of Manchester
- Mandatory licensing: certain houses in multiple occupation
- Additional licensing: certain areas
- List of licensed private-rented homes
- Apply for a licence
- Licensing: definitions (this page)
