Council seeks views on HMO planning rule change
Getty ImagesA Surrey council is asking for views on proposals to introduce planning controls for the conversion of homes into Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs).
An HMO is a property rented by at least three people from more than one household who share facilities such as a kitchen or bathroom, often known as house shares.
Reigate and Banstead Borough Council has invited residents, landlords, property owners and others to comment on whether it should change the rules so converting a home into a small HMO - for three to six residents - would need a full planning application. It currently does not.
The proposal would mean that the council would fully consider each proposal's location, design, accommodation standards and potential impact on neighbours and communities.
Larger HMOs, for seven or more residents, already need planning permission.
The consultation is set to run for eight weeks from 30 July to 24 September 2026.
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