At ShineTech, we offer a one-stop service for those responsible for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO), so that you can meet all your legal requirements for electrical safety, portable appliance testing, fire alarm and emergency lighting systems.
When is a home an HMO?
A home is considered an HMO when it is shared by at least three tenants from different households, and they share at least one basic amenity such as a toilet, bathroom or kitchen.
A house is considered a “Large HMO” when it is shared by at least five or more tenants from different households, and, they share at least one basic amenity such as toilet, bathroom or kitchen.
Some converted, self-contained or partially self-contained accommodation may also be considered to be an HMO if the conversion does not meet the building control requirements.
There is more extensive information on the HMO definition and guidance available on the Shelter website.
HMO electrical and fire safety
HMO landlords must ensure that the fixed-wire electrical installation and the portable electrical appliances supplied to the tenants are safe to be used.
The simplest way to achieve this is by carrying out periodic electrical installation condition report (EICR) testing on fixed-wired electrical installation, usually every five years—and testing portable electrical appliances every year.
HMO landlords must also take appropriate fire safety precautions to safeguard the tenants against the risk of fire. Adequate fire alarm systems, and emergency lighting in some cases, are essential components of the fire safety strategy for an HMO.
Different local authorities may have different sets of HMO requirements. All HMOs must comply with the standards set out by the relevant local authority.