In a significant shift in housing policy, starting from April 2025, property owners in England with second homes will face a new regime of council tax that could double their existing charges. This initiative mirrors similar measures previously adopted in both Scotland and Wales, where tax levies on second homes have been increasing due to rising housing shortages in regions often targeted by...
In recent times, the rising costs of housing have significantly impacted numerous individuals and families across the UK, as evidenced by the experiences of Aimee, a 32-year-old woman who has been forced to reassess her dreams of starting a family following a substantial rent hike. This situation highlights a crucial and distressing trend within the rental market, where skyrocketing rents are driving...
In a recent decision that has sparked significant debate, the Somerset Council's planning committee has approved a contentious 30-bed House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) on Friarn Street in Bridgwater. The approval was granted despite rigorous objections from local stakeholders regarding potential flooding risks from the adjacent Durleigh Brook and challenges related to insufficient parking. The council's...
In a significant enforcement action to uphold housing safety standards, two landlords in Sittingbourne, Kent, have been fined a total of over £25,000 for managing an overcrowded house in multiple occupation (HMO). The penalties were levied after an investigation by Swale Borough Council's housing enforcement team uncovered serious violations, including exceeding the legal occupancy limits and an unsafe...
As we approach April 2025, homeowners in England who possess second homes are preparing for significant changes regarding their council tax obligations. Under new regulations, local authorities will have the ability to double council tax on properties that are not considered main residences, marking a substantial move aimed at addressing the crisis in housing affordability particularly in regions popular...
Hyndburn Council has announced its intention to implement a new Article 4 direction aimed at regulating small houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) across nine specific wards: Barnfield, Central, Church, Clayton-le-Moors, Netherton, Peel, Rishton, Spring Hill, and St. Andrews. This strategic measure is part of the council's efforts to address the increasing prevalence of HMOs, which is seen as a growing...
In November 2024, Bridlington has taken a significant step in addressing its housing crisis with the recent approval from the East Riding Council's Eastern Area Planning Sub-Committee for the conversion of two former guest houses and a disused hotel into houses of multiple occupation (HMOs). This decision comes against a backdrop of high demand for affordable housing in the area, as local authorities seek...
In Broadstairs, a proposal to convert the Kent House nursing home into a 21-bed House of Multiple Occupation (HMO) is igniting community debate. This planned transformation, initiated by N & I Holdings Limited and represented by Inderjeet Singh Toot, aims to change the existing care facility, which served up to 25 residents, with minimal alterations to its physical structure. However, significant local...
In the midst of pressing homelessness issues, Edinburgh's council has granted emergency approval for bed and breakfasts (B&Bs) to continue providing accommodation for those without stable housing. This decision, made in response to the escalating homelessness crisis, raises significant concerns regarding the safety and quality of the facilities being used for this purpose. As the city grapples with a...
In a controversial decision, the Somerset Council's planning committee has approved a new 30-bed House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) on Friarn Street in Bridgwater, despite mounting concerns over potential flooding and inadequate parking facilities. This approval comes in the wake of local councillors expressing significant apprehension related to the risks posed by the nearby Durleigh Brook, alongside...
Compare listings
Compare