Another council is making it obligatory for landlords to secure planning permission for all HMOs.

Harrow council in London now has Article 4 Direction powers which gives it greater control over HMOs.

It says this means it can address common HMO issues including noise, rubbish, anti-social behaviour and pressure on finding family-sized housing.

Up until now smaller HMOs with  three to six unrelated people did not require planning permission and were automatically allowed the change under Permitted Development.

A Harrow council spokesperson says: “This decision is about protecting family homes and preserving the character of our borough.  

“It will help ensure shared housing is provided in the right places and to the right standards. 

“Residents have often told us about some of their issues and concerns they have and we’ve listened. 

“This is a significant step that puts residents first and gives us stronger powers to manage the impact of smaller HMOs. ”