If you are currently the landlord of a Bed & Breakfast accommodation, hostel, shared housing, lodging or a bedsit, chances are you are operating an HMO (House in Multiple Occupation). But what exactly is HMO and what are the implications for landlords in terms of the correct licences? We here at London Electricians are launching this general guide to help explain the basics.
London Electricians will answer your questions in terms of an HMO and what licenses are required by landlords.
An HMO is any property on which three or more people are living who are not related to each other, and landlords who own such establishment are required to have a license from the local council to ensure such property is managed effectively. It also has to be operated in accordance with specific safety requirements such as a Fire Alarm Certificate and an Emergency Lighting Certificate.
How does the HMO licensing affect landlords in terms of a Fire Alarm and Emergency Lighting Certificate?
There are several requirements, which landlords should meet before they can operate an HMO; including factors such as ensuring common areas are properly maintained. Two of the most important factors however, are the certificates with regards to fire alarms and emergency lighting. Regulations in terms electrical safety and fire precautions state that:
- All appliances that are of an electrical nature must at all times be safe for use; therefore such appliances and installations should be checked at least once every three years and an Emergency Lighting Certificate be issued by an approved NICEIC contractor;
- All equipment related to fire precautions including fire extinguishers, smoke alarms and fire alarms have to be in a serviceable condition. Where fire alarms are used, the appropriate Fire Alarm Certificate has to be issued to the landlord.
In cases where it became known to the local council that a landlord may be in breach of these regulations, the respective councils may request that the relevant certificates be produced within seven days. If no such certificates can be produced within the required period, landlords could face hefty fines of up to £20,000.
Your emergency electrician London
At London Electricians, we are in a position to inspect HMOs and, once the inspection has been finalised, issue landlords with a fire alarm certificate as well an emergency lighting certificate. Our inspections include the early detection of faulty or broken light switches and electrical outlets, as well as any visible signs of searing around electrical sockets as a result of damaged cables.
London Electricians at the service of HMO landlords
Whether you require an emergency electrician London or find yourself in need of emergency certificates as required for HMO landlords, our service has been designed for you. All our electrical engineers are highly qualified, and our 24 hour emergency service is available throughout the London area. Our services are BS7671 compliant, providing landlords with added peace of mind when in need of our expertise.
For more visit our Landlord HMO Licence page: https://www.london-electricians.com/landlord-hmo-licence.php