HMO Room Size Standards and Accommodation Rules for Newham Council
Newham Council has specific standards for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) to ensure tenants live in safe and suitable environments. These standards cover room sizes, shared facilities, and general property conditions to meet the needs of all occupants.
Room Size Requirements
For HMOs in Newham, the minimum room sizes depend on the type of accommodation and the age of the occupants:
- Single occupancy (1 adult):
Minimum size: 6.51 sqm to 10.21 sqm - Double occupancy (2 adults):
Minimum size: 10.22 sqm or more - Children under 10:
Specific allowances apply. Room size: 4.64 sqm to 6.50 sqm
Shared Facility Requirements
Shared kitchens, bathrooms, and other communal spaces must also adhere to size and condition standards:
Kitchens should be located within one floor of the sleeping area. The size of the kitchen depends on the number of sharers:
- Up to 3 Sharers: Minimum 5.5 m²
- 4-5 Sharers: Minimum 7.5 m²
- 6-7 Sharers: Minimum 9.5 m²
- 8-10 Sharers: Minimum 11.5 m²
Each set of kitchen facilities must include adequate cooking appliances, sinks, worktops, splashbacks, electrical sockets, storage, and refrigeration.
Fire Safety and Amenities
- Properties must have adequate fire safety measures, including [list safety measures such as smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, etc.].
- Essential amenities like heating, hot water, and ventilation must meet Newham's required standards.
Licensing Requirements
All HMOs in Newham must be licensed. This ensures compliance with the council's accommodation standards, including room sizes, safety features, and tenant rights.
FAQs
Q: When do I need to apply for an HMO licence?
A: You need to apply for an HMO licence if you are renting to more than two unrelated tenants.
Q: What do I need to do to apply?
A: We can help with your application. You will need a floor plan, an EPC, a fire alarm certificate, a valid EICR, and a gas safety certificate.
A: Enforcement Actions and Penalties:
Newham Council can issue Civil Penalty Notices for breaches, which may result in fines of up to £30,000 per offense.
You could face prosecution in a Magistrates’ Court, leading to unlimited fines.
Rent Repayment Orders (RRO):
- If the HMO operates without the required license, tenants (or the council if housing benefits are paid) can apply to recover up to 12 months' rent through an RRO.
Banning Orders:
- Repeated offenses could result in a banning order, preventing you from letting properties or engaging in property management activities.
Property Closure or Management Orders:
- The council could issue a Closure Order, prohibiting use of the property.
- Alternatively, a Management Order might be implemented, transferring control of the property to the council or a designated body.
Legal Requirements for Landlords:
- Compliance with fire safety standards, minimum room sizes, and provision of adequate amenities is mandatory.
- Regular inspections and adherence to licensing conditions are enforced under the Housing Act 2004.
Reputational Damage:
- Operating an illegal HMO can severely damage your reputation as a landlord, making it harder to rent properties in the future.
As HMO specialists, we can assist with your application and ensure your property meets HMO standards. HMO licence application help
