National HMO Network

The National HMO Network is an organisation dedicated to fostering a comprehensive understanding of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) within England and Wales. The Network operates as a non-profit entity, reinvesting all revenue generated into its voluntary activities and annual events. Its core mission involves promoting clarity regarding the wide range of matters associated with Parts 1, 2, and 3 of the Housing Act 2004, along with relevant regulations, guidance, and codes of practice. The organisation aims to facilitate the sharing of information, skills, and experience among various interested parties in the HMO sector.

The Network's activities extend to bringing together individuals from numerous disciplines, including local authority HMO licensing and enforcement officers, landlords, landlord organisations, tenants' groups, academic institutions, and accommodation providers. Central government representatives in England and Wales, private consultants, legal professionals, charitable bodies, professional groups, and fire services also form part of its diverse community. Through this collaborative approach, the National HMO Network works to shape the HMO landscape, advocating for best practices and providing essential resources and insights to support the community. The organisation recently unveiled new branding, marking 35 years as a voice for the HMO community and signifying its continued dedication to innovation, quality, and excellence in the sector.

Membership in the National HMO Network is open to any organisation or individual who shares the Network's aims. While the majority of its membership comprises local authorities, it also includes landlords' and tenants' groups, academic institutions, private consultants, central government officers, charitable and professional groups, and letting and managing agents. There is no fee for membership; however, members wishing to attend conferences are required to pay a delegate fee. Each member organisation designates one person as a named contact, responsible for disseminating information from the Network and conference hosts to colleagues, and acting as the voting representative at Annual General Meetings (AGMs).

The Network regularly holds conferences at various venues across the UK, providing a platform for members to discuss the application and introduction of legislation and guidance, policy, areas of good practice, and working partnerships. These events also address training and development issues, covering subjects such as the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS), housing and fire safety, student accommodation, tenancy deposit schemes, and landlord accreditation. The National HMO Network has an elected Steering Group that responds to government consultations on behalf of the Network and collaborates with partners, including the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health and landlords' groups, to consider good practice issues for training and skill-sharing. The conferences offer networking opportunities, allowing delegates to connect with other organisations and individuals to compare notes and discuss issues.

Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) are defined by The Housing Act 2004 as dwellings occupied by more than one household. This broad definition encompasses various types of accommodation, including bedsits, flatlets, shared houses, hostels, and student and employee accommodation. Therefore, the National HMO Network's focus on HMOs directly includes the Private Rented Sector (PBSA), as student accommodation falls within the scope of HMOs. The Network's work in promoting understanding of regulations, best practices, and legislative updates for HMOs is directly applicable to those involved in the provision and management of student housing across England and Wales.

The organisation's efforts to raise the bar for professionalism and knowledge in the HMO sector contribute to setting standards that benefit all forms of multi-occupancy dwellings, including those serving students.