Can HMO Licences Be Transferred?
Houses of Multiple Occupancy (HMOs) refer to properties that are rented out by at least three tenants who are not from the same family and share amenities such as bathrooms and kitchens.
These types of properties are subject to specific regulations and often require a licence to operate. In Cambridge, the rules are that properties rented to five or more people require a HMO Licence.
However, HMO licences cannot be transferred from one owner to another when a property changes hands. This is because the licence is tied to the specific property and its conditions, rather than the owner. When a property changes hands, the new owner must apply for a new HMO licence, even if the previous owner held a valid licence.
The reason for this is that the local council must assess the new owner’s ability to meet the required standards for HMOs, including fire safety, cleanliness, and management.
The council will also consider the condition of the property and any changes made since the previous licence was granted.
Additionally, a change in ownership may result in a change in the use of the property, which can affect its suitability for an HMO licence.
For example, the new owner may have plans to convert the property into a different type of dwelling, or the property may no longer meet the criteria for an HMO licence due to changes in local planning regulations.
In conclusion, a licence for an HMO cannot be transferred because it is tied to the specific property and its conditions, rather than the owner.
The local council must assess the new owner’s ability to meet the required standards and assess the property’s suitability for an HMO licence.
It is important for new owners to be aware of this and to apply for a new HMO licence as soon as possible after taking ownership of an HMO property. If you need any support with your HMO Licence applications, please give me a call on 01223 953899 or email on alex@babouris.co.uk
Meet The Writer:
Alex Babouris is a HMO investor with more than 10 years of experience. He is the founder of Cambridge Property People – a community of local property professionals, investors and enthusiasts, and Alex is the founder and lettings director at Babouris – a specialist HMO property investment and management agency.