Things you must know before letting rooms to five or more students

Posted under Advice by Michael

Families earn lot of rental income by letting their homes to students. But many of them do not know rules pertaining to letting rooms in a house of three or more stories to five or more students. It is necessary to get license from the local authority for a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO).

You are supposed to pay HMO license fees, up to £1,100 in some cases, to the local authorities. You are also legally bound to adhere to standards on safety, health, and room size (6.5 sq. m for single person and 10 sq. m for couples).

When you are letting your home for more students in their late teens or early 20s, you must equip it thoughtfully. The equipment must be durable and should require low maintenance.

The kitchen worktops should be easy-to-replace. Install vinyl floors and cupboard doors. Do not conceal shower units in the walls to avoid breaking of tiles for repair of showers.

Provide locks for windows since student rooms are more prone for thefts. If you intend to provide a garden space, make it a plain lawn which would not require daily care except for the occasional mowing.

You should ensure that you provide broadband internet connection which is a must for students.

If you can afford it, take out specific insurance against fire, flood and theft.