Another Labour controlled council is introducing additional licensing for small HMOs.

York council says that from April 1 an additional licence is required for any HMO occupied by three or four people who form more than one household and where householders share facilities such as the kitchen, bathroom, or toilet. 

Additional licensing affects these properties in eight wards – they reportedly have the highest densities of HMOs in the city.

The decision to introduce these licences was made back in August following two rounds of 10-week consultations.

A council spokesperson says: “The vast majority of private landlords in the city run well-maintained and well-managed HMOs. 

“This additional licensing scheme gives them all a level playing field, clear standards to meet and management training.

“It will also help ensure tenants of HMOs, especially those in wards where HMOs are most numerous, are protected by ensuring those high standards are met.”