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Tenants' views sought on private rented property in Colchester

afternoon sunshine in a suburban street

Colchester residents living in Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) can help ensure these homes are high quality by giving their views on the Council's strategy.

Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) are an important part of the affordable housing mix available in Colchester and Colchester Borough Council is committed to improving this private rented housing. A draft HMO strategy including proposals for making sure that these properties are consistently safe, well managed and high quality has now been published.

Many Colchester residents rent rooms in houses when they first start work or move away from home including to study. Older or more vulnerable residents might also live in an HMO because it is more affordable than renting a self-contained flat. The Council is keen to hear from all these residents to help improve standards in future.

Houses split into separate bedsits, house or flat shares and private student lets are all HMOs. Each home could be occupied by three or more people who do not live as a single family and share facilities.

The consultation is here and is open until Wednesday 29 February.  Responses will be used to improve the Council's future strategy and develop an action plan.

The Council is also consulting with landlords' representatives and statutory and voluntary agencies across the borough.

Colchester Borough Council's Housing and Community Safety Portfolio Holder, Councillor Tim Young said: "Many people live in an HMO and often this suits their plans and is affordable for them. However, we know that both the condition of the property and the way it is managed can vary. That is why Colchester Borough Council is looking to raise standards.

"We can only do this by listening to the views of tenants and landlords. We can use what they tell us to make sure our strategy delivers good quality homes for tenants and the right support and advice for landlords."

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Notes to editors

For information contact:

Communications on communications@colchester.gov.uk or 07815 088150

For comment or opinion contact:

Colchester Borough Council's Portfolio Holder for Housing and Community Safety Portfolio Holder, Councillor Tim Young, 07949 066915

Background information

The following are usually classed as Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO):

  • a house split into separate bedsits
  • a house or flat, occupied by several people with separate tenancy agreements
  • a hostel
  • a bed-and-breakfast hotel that is not just for holidays
  • students living together in private rented properties

Generally halls of residence and other types of student accommodation owned by colleges or universities are not classed as HMOs.