Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) Draft Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) Consultation

We are proposing to introduce a Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO). The SPD will be used for the determination of all HMO planning applications and sets out what a HMO is, the interrelationship between planning and licencing and the planning determination process.

In planning terms, Houses in Multiple Occupation (‘HMOs’) are defined as properties that are rented out by at least three or more unrelated individuals who do not form a single household (such as a family) but share one or more basic amenities such as a kitchen or toilet or personal washing facilities (comprising a shower and/or a bath). They are sometimes known as ‘shared houses’ and for those living in the HMO it should be their only or main form of residence, unlike those who live in serviced accommodation which is typically a short-term living arrangement and the occupier has a main residence elsewhere.

We are asking for your views, please click this link to complete the survey

Please read the Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) Draft Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) available to the right in key documents before completing the survey.

Paper copies of the Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) Draft Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) are also available at Hartlepool Borough Council, Civic Centre, Victoria Road, Hartlepool, TS24 8AY.

Paper copies of the survey are available upon request.

Representations must be made by 5pm on 19th January 2026.