New Policy strengthens oversight of HMOs in Castle Point
Castle Point Borough Council has adopted a new Policy to help ensure shared housing in the Borough remains safe, well managed and monitored.
The Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) Policy which was agreed by Cabinet on Wednesday (15 July) sets out how the Council will regulate this type of accommodation.
A HMO is a property where three or more people from different households live together and share facilities such as a kitchen or bathroom. Some larger HMOs, housing five or more people, must be licensed by the Council.
Although there are currently only a very small number of HMOs in Castle Point and no evidence of widespread problems, the Council recognises residents' concerns about this type of shared accommodation and wants to ensure appropriate safeguards are in place.
Councillor Rob Lillis, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Housing, said: "This Policy gives residents reassurance that the Council is monitoring HMOs in Castle Point. While numbers remain low, it is important that we have a clear Policy in place to ensure properties are safe, well managed and do not negatively impact local communities."
Residents who have concerns about a property can report them through the Council's website, where they will be reviewed by the Environmental Health team.
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