The City of London is set to consult on a proposed increase in fees for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). This follows a review of the current fees, which have been in place since 2006. The proposed increase is intended to cover the costs of additional regulation and enforcement of HMOs.
HMOs are residential properties that are occupied by three or more people who are not from the same family. They are often used by students and young professionals who cannot afford to rent a property alone. The City of London has seen an increase in the number of HMOs in recent years, and this has led to concerns about overcrowding and other issues.
The proposed fee increase would cover the cost of additional regulation and enforcement of HMOs. This would include additional inspections, enforcement of safety standards, and other measures to ensure that HMOs are properly managed. It is expected that the fees would be charged to landlords, who would then pass them on to their tenants.
The City of London will be consulting with residents, landlords, and other stakeholders on the proposed fee increase. This will give them an opportunity to provide feedback on the proposal and suggest any changes that they think should be made. The consultation will also provide an opportunity for people to discuss the potential impact of the fee increase on tenants and landlords.
The proposed fee increase is part of a wider effort by the City of London to improve the management of HMOs. This includes introducing a licensing scheme for landlords, increasing enforcement activity, and providing additional support for tenants. These measures are intended to ensure that HMOs are safe and well-managed, and that tenants have access to good quality housing.
The consultation on the proposed fee increase is expected to take place over the coming months. It will provide an important opportunity for people to have their say on the proposal and suggest any changes that they think should be made. The outcome of the consultation will be used to inform any decision that is made about the fee increase.