HMO and conversion questions, answered

In most cases, yes. In England, an HMO let to five or more people who form more than one household needs a mandatory licence, and many councils also run additional licensing schemes that cover smaller HMOs. We check your council's requirements at the feasibility stage, before you commit.

It depends on the size of the HMO and where it is. Changing a house to a small HMO (three to six unrelated people) can often be done without a planning application, but many councils have removed that right with an Article 4 direction. A large HMO of seven or more people normally needs planning permission. We flag planning issues before you commit.

For licensed HMOs in England, a bedroom used by one adult must be at least 6.51m² and one used by two adults at least 10.22m². Many councils also set their own standards for kitchens, bathrooms and shared space. We design layouts around your council's standards from day one.

It depends on the size and layout of the property, but typically fire doors, a protected escape route and interlinked smoke and heat detection, with emergency lighting where the layout requires it. We design fire safety in from the start and hand over the certificates and compliance paperwork with the keys.

It depends on the size and condition of the property and the scope of work. As a guide, a 5 to 6 bedroom HMO conversion typically takes 6 to 10 weeks on site, and a 7+ bedroom conversion 7 to 12 weeks. Extensions, planning approvals and the agreed stage-payment schedule can move a job within or beyond those ranges, and refurbishments and homeowner projects are programmed individually. After the free site visit you get a line-by-line quote and a programme, so you know the cost and timescale before any work starts.

Yes. We walk the property, assess what's achievable and flag any planning or licensing issues, at no cost. Book through the form and we'll reply within one working day.

Yes. House Point holds public liability, employers' liability, professional indemnity and contract works insurance. That covers third parties and neighbouring property, our team on site, our design and specification advice, and the works themselves until handover. Certificates are available on request.