Consultation on adding new categories to the definition of a House in Multiple Occupation

Overview

Concerns have been raised with the Scottish Government regarding the accommodation that contract and transient workers reside in when they are required to work away from home.

A number of local authorities have highlighted that these workers are often found staying in a range of accommodation such as Bed and Breakfasts and holiday lets - on a long term basis. They considered that the circumstances are equivalent to the properties being used as Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) and therefore they should be licensed in a similar way to ensure the safety of the occupants.

This consultation proposes adding new categories to the definition of HMO, the policy intention of the changes focus on ensuring that contract and transient workers - who often have no choice as to where they stay when working away from home - are afforded the same health and safety rights as those who live in a shared rented property as their only or main residence.

Why your views matter

This consultation seeks your views in order to inform and develop the final policy and impact assessments that will be prepared in support of any Order to expand the definition of a House in Multiple Occupation.

View the full paper on gov.scot

What happens next

Following the closing date, all responses will be analysed and considered along with any other available evidence to help inform the final policy development.