A House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) is a property which is occupied by people who do not form a single household and who share basic amenities such as bathroom, toilet and kitchen facilities.
An HMO also includes converted self-contained flats, which do not meet as a minimum standard the requirements of the 1991 Building Regulations, and where at least one third of the flats are occupied under short tenancies.
Local Authorities have specific powers to ensure they are well-managed and kept in good order.