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Disclaimer: This is not legal advice. Legislation and case law change. Always consult a qualified solicitor for your specific situation.

UK Law Reference
Full glossary
Legal term
Housing Law

House in Multiple Occupation

A property rented out by at least 3 people from more than one household who share facilities such as a bathroom or kitchen (sometimes called a 'house share'). A mandatory HMO licence, valid for up to 5 years, is required for a 'large HMO' — broadly, one let to 5 or more people forming more than one household who share facilities.

Independent editorial summary — not the official statute text. Read the official version on legislation.gov.uk.

Government guidance defines the category by household structure, not just headcount: 'A house in multiple occupation (HMO) is a property rented out by at least 3 people who are not from 1 "household" (for example a family) but share facilities like the bathroom and kitchen.' The mandatory licensing threshold is set out precisely: a property is a 'large HMO' — and therefore requires a licence — if 'it is rented to 5 or more people who form more than 1 household', 'some or all tenants share toilet, bathroom or kitchen facilities', and 'at least 1 tenant pays rent (or their employer pays it for them).' Smaller HMOs can still need a licence depending on local rules: guidance notes 'Even if your property is smaller and rented to fewer people, you may still need a licence depending on the area.'

A licence comes with real, ongoing obligations, not just a one-off application. It 'is valid for a maximum of 5 years' and 'a separate licence' is needed 'for each HMO you run.' The licensed landlord must ensure 'the house is suitable for the number of occupants' and that the manager is 'fit and proper' — for example having 'no criminal record or breach of landlord laws or code of practice' — and must additionally 'send the council an updated gas safety certificate every year', 'install and maintain smoke alarms', and 'provide safety certificates for all electrical appliances when requested.'

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Official sources

This explanation is drawn from the official sources below; every substantive statement is verified against them. For advice on a specific matter, see our find help page.