Disturbing reports today of a council in Scotland housing the homeless in “illegal” HMO’s.

Well, actually hang on a minute.  They aren’t illegal – they are just NOT licenced yet…

So, what happens to your HMO once you’ve put in for your licence?

Well according to UK HMO regulations (which may differ from Scottish law), as long as you are following the guidelines set down by the licencing authority and they haven’t condemned you (which can happen!), then you are fine to carry on operating.

So, whilst its a good story for the press; in reality, what choice does a council have in terms of meeting their obligations to house homeless people.

Read the shocking HMO story for more details but just ensure that you have your licence in – and I think that the onus is then on the council to process it.  I’ve been waiting nearly 2 years for one council to process my application