A councillor in the North of England has pushed back against unlikely claims that large firms operating HMOs are ‘taking away his town’s family homes’.

Colleagues in Barnsley calling for tougher regulations in the sector claim HMOs are shrinking the available housing stock, a common compliant by those criticising the sector.

Councillor Steve Bullcock says: “We cannot overlook every house converted into an HMO is potentially an affordable family home no longer available for the area,” reports The Barnsley Chronicle. “This is a worry; we should encourage the availability of affordable family homes at all times.”

Councillor Robin Franklin (pictured) cabinet spokesperson for regeneration and culture, points out that an Article 4 Direction since 2021 means that every potential HMO requires planning permission and consideration against the policies contained within the town’s local plan.

First time buyers

“Most HMOs are larger properties, around five to 12 bedrooms, so not typically the choice for first-time buyers,” Franklin explains. “They also help to meet housing needs in the borough by providing more affordable options for our residents.”

He adds that the authority’s data does not suggest that antisocial behaviour was more prevalent in areas with higher numbers of HMOs.

As of June, 188 HMOs have been licensed across the borough, managed by companies nationwide including from London, Nottingham and Gloucester.

Stringent

Councillor Bullcock told the Chronicle: “HMOs should without fail be subject to stringent regular checks every six months, or why not after every change of tenant - these checks should be mandatory and undertaken by the council and funded by the landlord.”

He adds: “What I have grave concerns about is long distance, irresponsible landlords or agents who do not show any interest day-to-day with how the property is managed by the tenants.”