Council takes firm action on problem houses in multiple occupation (HMOs)

While HMOs provide important affordable housing, high concentrations in some areas, especially where tenants come from outside the Borough, have led to concerns over noise, anti-social behaviour, parking and community character.

To tackle this, the Council introduced an Article 4 Direction in Staines, Stanwell North, and Ashford North & Stanwell South, requiring planning permission for new HMOs. A Borough-wide Article 4 Direction will take effect in March 2026.

Spelthorne’s Council Leader, Cllr Joanne Sexton, will also be contacting licensed HMO landlords highlighting their legal and moral duties to maintain properties, safeguard tenants and avoid causing nuisance. Enforcement is being strengthened, and the Council is in the process of taking civil penalty action against several landlords for failure to obtain HMO licences, breaches of housing standards and inadequate property management.

Cllr Joanne Sexton said: “HMOs must be safe, well-managed and respectful of communities. We are sending a clear message to all landlords: get it right, or we will take action.”

For more information, visit https://www.spelthorne.gov.uk/page/1507/houses-multiple-occupation-hmo

To report an unlicensed HMO, visit https://www.spelthorne.gov.uk/report