What is an HMO?

An HMO, or House in Multiple Occupation, is a property rented out by at least three people who are not from one 'household' (e.g., a family) but share facilities like a kitchen, bathroom, or living room.

HMOs are often popular with students and young professionals due to their affordability, social aspect, and convenient locations. FlatHomes manages HMO properties that meet all legal and safety standards, providing comfortable shared living spaces.

Your Occupation Contract in an HMO

Under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2022, you will have an 'occupation contract'. In an HMO, you might have:

• Individual Contracts: Each resident has a separate contract for their room and a shared responsibility for communal areas. This is common in student houses.
• Joint Contract: All residents are on one contract, making them jointly and severally responsible for the entire property and the rent.

Always refer to your specific occupation contract for the precise terms and conditions of your tenancy, including rent responsibilities, notice periods, and rules regarding shared living.

Key Responsibilities in an HMO

Living in an HMO means sharing responsibilities to ensure a pleasant environment for everyone. Your contract will outline these, but here are the key areas:

1. Maintaining Shared Spaces:

• Kitchens: Keep surfaces clean, wash up after yourself, empty bins regularly, and clean shared appliances (microwave, oven, fridge) to prevent food build-up and odours.
• Bathrooms: Clean baths, showers, sinks, and toilets after use. Ensure good ventilation to prevent damp and mould.
• Living Areas: Keep communal lounges and hallways tidy and free from personal belongings.
• Cleaning Rotas: Consider setting up a cleaning rota with your housemates to ensure all shared areas are regularly cleaned.

2. Waste Management:

• Understand Cardiff Council's recycling and general waste collection schedule for your property.
• Sort your waste correctly into the designated bins/sacks (food waste, recycling, general waste).
• Ensure bins are put out on the correct day and brought back in promptly after collection.
• Avoid overflowing bins, as this can attract pests and result in fines.

3. Noise & Respectful Living:

• Be mindful of noise levels, especially during evenings and early mornings. Sound travels easily in shared homes.
• Respect quiet hours, particularly if housemates are studying or working from home.
• Communicate with your housemates about guests, parties, or any activities that might create extra noise.

4. Fire Safety:

• Crucial in HMOs: HMOs have stricter fire safety regulations due to multiple occupants.
• Fire Doors: If your property has fire doors, they are there to protect escape routes. Never wedge them open or remove their self-closing mechanisms.
• Escape Routes: Keep all hallways, stairwells, and exits clear of obstructions at all times. This is your escape route in an emergency.
• Smoke & CO Alarms: Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms weekly. Report any faults to FlatHomes immediately.
• Appliances: Do not leave cooking unattended. Unplug electrical appliances when not in use or when leaving the property.

5. Reporting Issues:

• Report any maintenance issues (e.g., leaks, broken appliances, heating problems) to FlatHomes promptly via our online portal.
• Report any anti-social behaviour from housemates or neighbours to FlatHomes. We can mediate and take appropriate action.

Tips for Harmonious Shared Living

Living with others can be a great experience, and good communication is key:

• Communicate: Talk to your housemates about expectations for cleanliness, noise, and shared responsibilities. A house meeting at the start of the tenancy can be very helpful.
• Respect Personal Space: Be mindful of your housemates' privacy and personal belongings.
• Chores: Divide chores fairly and stick to them.
• Food Storage: Label your food in the fridge/cupboards to avoid confusion.

Questions or Concerns?

If you have any questions about living in your FlatHomes HMO, or if you need to report a maintenance issue or anti-social behaviour, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to support you and ensure you have a safe and comfortable home.