Published: Thursday, 30th June 2022
Cannock Chase Council are undertaking a consultation on new draft Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) Space and Amenity Standards, covering rented properties let on a shared or room by room basis.
The standards, outline to landlords, agents and tenants what is expected in HMOs operating within Cannock Chase with the aim of delivering safe, quality, well managed housing.
Of the available privately rented homes within Cannock Chase, HMOs are a growing market which typically sees tenants sharing kitchen, bathroom and living/dining facilities. Utility bills are also mostly included in the monthly rent. HMOs with five or more occupiers require a HMO licence from the Council confirming the property is safe with suitable management arrangements in place.
The Council will send the consultation direct to known local letting agents and landlords operating in the area, but equally would like to hear from tenants directly, particularly those living in shared housing.
Councillor Adrienne Fitzgerald, Portfolio Leader for Housing, Heritage and Leisure said “We are committed to ensuring all our residents live in safe homes. These standards set out our approach to improving the condition of Houses in Multiple Occupation and providing support to landlords, letting agents and the tenants themselves”.
“We sincerely hope these standards will contribute to the Council’s vision of a Cannock Chase that local residents are proud to call home.”
The consultation gives residents the opportunity to let us know what we have got right, but also highlight areas we need to consider further. You can access the consultation here: https://www.cannockchasedc.gov.uk/residents/environmental-health/private-sector-housing
Your views will help produce a final version of the Standards which will be applied moving forwards. The consultation closes on Thursday 28 July.
For further information on the consultation please contact privatesectorhousing@cannockchasedc.gov.uk