Number of HMOs in Rugby “remains to be seen”

On 13 December 2018, at a full meeting Councillor Tim Douglas (Paddox Ward) quizzed Rugby Borough Council about the need to identify Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) in the Borough Rugby and act against those who do not comply with the rules.

On 25 June 2018 a Cabinet Report stated that the Council "will seek to identify all HMOs within the Borough and endeavour to work with those in control f the HMOs to ensure no occupants of these properties are put at unacceptable risks."

Councillor Douglas asked the Portfolio Holder for an progress update and to confirm that all HMOs in the Borough had been identified and whether any improvement notices have been issued or enforcement has taken place.

The response made clear that since the new legislation came into effect the council have written to landlords but the "number remains to be seen" with the Portfolio Holder unable to confirm an exact number.

Commenting, Councillor Tim Douglas, said:

"New rules for HMOs came into force on 1 October 2018 and it is worrying that the Council do not know how many HMOs are in the Borough. HMOs are an important part of the overall housing mix serving people looking for affordable housing options, but it is vital that this type of housing is of good quality and safe to live in. As more and more people are renting the Council must do more to focus its attention on this part of the housing market."