Tamworth Borough Council is cracking down on unlicensed shared houses following a surge in smaller Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) across the borough. The council has launched a consultation on plans to require HMOs with three or four residents to be licensed and inspected – a significant shift in how the council regulates shared housing in Tamworth.
Currently, only HMOs with five or more occupants need a license in Tamworth. However, the council knows of at least 131 smaller shared houses locally, with another 29 under review. The real number is likely much higher because landlords are not required to register properties with fewer than five occupants. Unlicensed properties often have serious fire safety issues and inadequate escape routes – risks that typically only get picked up if someone complains to the council.
The new licensing scheme would allow Tamworth Council to carry out proactive inspections and enforce tougher standards to ensure all shared houses meet proper safety requirements. Stephen Gabriel, chief executive of Tamworth Borough Council, said: "The rise in smaller HMOs has highlighted a clear gap in how we regulate this sector." The council emphasises that HMOs play a vital role in providing affordable homes for students, young professionals, and people on lower incomes.
The consultation on these new Tamworth HMO licensing rules runs until August 20. Residents, tenants and landlords can have their say through an online survey at smartsurvey.co.uk/s/ZVLMEJ/. This is your opportunity to respond to the council's proposals before any new regulations are introduced.