Additional Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) Licensing Scheme Proposal

Overview

We are seeking views on our proposal to introduce a borough wide additional HMO licensing scheme for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). These are often shared homes, including house and flat shares, bedsits and some buildings converted into flats. We want to ensure safe, well managed and healthy homes for tenants living in the private rented sector, and in particular for those living in HMOs. We aim to work with landlords to drive up compliance and professionalism, whilst using the full range of our legal powers against those who choose not to respond to formal approaches.

Kensington and Chelsea has a growing private sector market, with 44 per cent of its properties being privately rented. HMOs make up a significant part of that market, providing some of the cheapest forms of private housing available, to a diverse mix of people, families, and communities across the whole of the borough.

Housing is a major focus for the Council, and we know that safe, secure, healthier, and affordable homes are vital for giving people the best possible chance in life, helping to promote equal access to services, and opportunities for all. Through our Housing strategy we are committed to ensuring all housing, including HMOs, meet the highest possible safety standards.

Our proposed additional HMO licensing scheme forms part of our commitment. Please read the consultation document which outlines the additional HMO licensing scheme proposals in further detail. If you haven't had the opportunity to look through this document, we encourage you to do so before completing the survey. 

We want to hear your views so please:

• Read our full consultation document which outlines the additional HMO licensing scheme proposal
• Complete our online survey by following the link in the 'Give us your views' section at the bottom of this page

If you require hard copies, are having difficulties accessing the material or require the information in another format (e.g. information in an alternative language) please contact the Private Sector Housing Team via email EH-OSU@rbkc.gov.uk or phone 020 7341 5714 to request this between 9am - 5pm Monday to Friday.

This survey will run for a period of 12 weeks, and will close on 20 June 2021 – your participation in this consultation is voluntary. Should you choose to respond, information about how your data will be processed can be found at the end of the survey.