Houses in multiple occupation in the Harrogate area

What is a house in multiple occupation? 

The Housing Act 2004 introduced a new definition of what constitutes a house in multiple occupation.

A house in multiple occupation means a building (or part of a building, such as a flat), that:

• is occupied by more than one household and where more than one household shares, or lacks an amenity, such as a bathroom, toilet or cooking facilities or
• is occupied by more than one household and which is a converted building, but not entirely into self-contained flats (whether or not some amenities are shared or lacking) or
• is converted self-contained flats, but does not meet as a minimum standard the requirements of the 1991 Building Regulations, and at least one third of flats are occupied under short tenancies

The building may be occupied by more than one household:

• as their only or main residence
• as a refuge of people escaping domestic violence
• by students during term time
• for other purposes described by the Government

People do not form a single household unless they are members of the same family. A household is defined as:

• families, including single people, couples and same sex couples
• other relationships, such as fostering, carers and domestic staff

What we do

We make sure that these houses are fit for occupation and suitable for the numbers of people intending to live in them.

We do this by:

• responding to complaints
• revisiting premises to ensure that work has been carried out and standards are being maintained
• viewing planning applications