Editor's note: This brief was summarised by The Property AI Newsroom from a report by The Negotiator. Read the original article for full details.

Stoke-on-Trent Council Announces Major Crackdown on HMO Sector

Stoke-on-Trent City Council has introduced a series of strict new measures targeting houses in multiple occupation (HMOs), responding to concerns from residents about the impact of high concentrations of shared housing. The council, run by the Reform party, is proposing limits on the number of HMOs in each ward and is consulting on a city-wide additional licensing scheme for smaller HMOs.

The council's new approach includes an Article 4 Direction, which removes automatic development rights for converting family homes into HMOs. This means that planning permission will now be required for such conversions, which previously did not need approval.

Under the proposed rules, the number of HMOs will be capped at 4% of residential properties in wards with a very high number of HMOs, 2.5% in wards with a high number, and 1.5% in all other wards. The measures also state that there cannot be two HMOs side-by-side with a single frontage, and that other homes should not be 'sandwiched' between two HMOs.

The council is also consulting on a city-wide 'additional licensing' scheme. If approved, this would bring all smaller HMOs in Stoke-on-Trent under regulation. The proposals are set to be considered by the city’s cabinet next week.

These actions are part of a broader effort to address concerns raised by residents about the effects of high concentrations of HMOs, including issues related to noise, waste, and parking demand. The council has stated that it aims to strike a balance between meeting housing needs and maintaining neighbourhood standards.

The announcement follows similar moves by other Reform-run councils, although Stoke-on-Trent's measures are described as among the most stringent. The issue of HMO management and accountability has also been raised in Parliament by Reform MP Lee Anderson.

These developments are particularly relevant for letting agents and inventory clerks operating in Stoke-on-Trent, as the proposed changes could significantly affect HMO management, licensing, and compliance requirements.