New Planning Rules Introduced to Regulate Shared Housing Conversions
Local authority enacts strict rule – authority controls conversion. HMOs now rise swiftly; numbers leap from 100 to 700 in four years. Regulation binds each conversion; house becomes shared dwelling only under approved plan.
What Are HMOs and Why the Change?
HMOs stand as dwellings: property rents split among three or more tenants; tenants share kitchen, bath, space. Past law allowed house-to-HMO change for up to six occupants under permitted development; conversion needed no prior plan. Surge in change bred issues – nuisance, traffic, stress on local services. Council commands planning check through an Article 4 Direction; any proposed conversion must secure prior plan so locals signal dissent if they wish.
Implications for Property Investors and Residents
Rule now binds every conversion; owner must seek planning consent before change. Missing this step invites enforcement, which brings costly remedial works. Policy shapes conversion act; development of HMOs ties to preserving local community style and structure.
Community and Political Perspectives
Representatives stand with new rule; local voice notes unchecked HMO growth disrupts neighbour links and dwelling quality. Councillors stress need for strict check on conversion patterns; such check holds back unwanted change and secures residents’ stake.
Summary
Policy now marks shift – conversion of houses into multiple occupant dwellings falls under tight planning control. Investors must now gain planning consent. Change balances housing supply with local stability; it gives residents a seat during conversion planning.
