What This Requirement Covers
The Management of Houses in Multiple Occupation (England) Regulations 2006 (as amended) impose specific duties on the manager of every HMO in England, regardless of whether the HMO requires a licence.
Key Requirements
Manager's Duties
The manager (typically the landlord or their agent) must
- Provide contact details (name, address, and telephone number) to each household and display them in a prominent position in the property
- Maintain the common parts: Stairways, hallways, landings, shared kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor areas must be kept in good repair, clean, and clear of obstructions
- Maintain fire safety equipment: Fire alarms, fire extinguishers, fire blankets, emergency lighting, and fire doors must be kept in working order and tested regularly
- Maintain water supply and drainage: The water supply, drainage, and sanitary installations must be kept in good working order
- Maintain gas and electrical installations: Gas appliances must have an annual Gas Safety Certificate; electrical installations must be periodically inspected (EICR every 5 years)
- Maintain waste disposal: Adequate bins and arrangements for refuse disposal must be provided
- Maintain the structure and exterior: The structure, external walls, roof, windows, and doors must be maintained in good repair
Occupiers' Duties
Occupiers must
- Not obstruct the manager in carrying out their duties
- Not damage any part of the property
- Dispose of refuse in the bins provided
- Comply with reasonable instructions from the manager regarding fire safety
Enforcement
- Local authorities can issue improvement notices requiring specific works to be carried out
- Civil penalties (fines) of up to GBP 30,000 per offence can be imposed for breaches of the Management Regulations
- Prosecution is also possible, with unlimited fines
- Rent repayment orders may be obtained by tenants if the landlord has been convicted of an offence under the Housing Act 2004
Practical Compliance Tips
- Keep a file of all maintenance records, safety certificates, and inspection reports for the HMO
- Carry out regular inspections (at least quarterly) to check the condition of common parts, fire safety equipment, and the building fabric
- Respond promptly to repair requests from tenants; delays can lead to enforcement action
- Ensure the Gas Safety Certificate and EICR are current and copies are provided to tenants
- Train any employed staff or agents in their responsibilities under the Management Regulations
- Budget for ongoing maintenance; well-maintained HMOs have fewer enforcement issues and better tenant retention
- If you use a managing agent, ensure they understand and comply with the Management Regulations on your behalf