Houses in Multiple Occupation

Opened the debate

Emma Lewell-Buck, MP for South Shields, raised concerns about the proliferation of HMOs in her constituency. She noted that these dwellings often lack adequate living conditions and contribute to issues such as crime, antisocial behaviour, violence, drug abuse, and environmental decline. Emphasising the need for better social housing solutions, she highlighted the concentration of HMOs in specific areas within South Shields, detailing their negative impact on residents' quality of life.

Government Response

Minister Ashley Fox acknowledged the concerns raised about HMOs and highlighted measures taken by local authorities to regulate them. He noted that all larger HMOs require planning permission, while smaller ones can change use under permitted development rights. South Tyneside council has introduced a borough-wide article 4 direction to control new HMOs regardless of size. The Minister emphasised the importance of up-to-date local plans and the need for councils to adopt them. He also mentioned that the Government is consulting on a more flexible policy regarding article 4 directions to safeguard amenity or well-being in areas with over-concentration of small HMOs. Additionally, he discussed the safety and management regulations for HMOs, including fit-and-proper person tests, licence revocation powers, and civil penalties up to £40,000. The Minister expressed willingness to discuss regulatory strengthening with MPs and highlighted funding of £18.2 million in 2025-26 and £41.1 million for 2026-27 to support enforcement responsibilities under the Renters’ Rights Act 2025.