THE SAFETY AND SECURITY OF PERSONS LIKELY TO OCCUPY THE ACCOMMODATION
The
safety and security of occupiers is of utmost importance in assessing whether
accommodation is suita ble
for occupation as an HMO. Local
authorities are therefore required to consider this when deciding whether
accommodation is suita ble
for use as an HMO. If it is considered
that there are any risks to occupiers’ safety and security, the licence should
not be granted until remedial action has been taken and the authority is
content that the risk has been removed.
4.10.2 In considering whether the
accommodation is safe and secure, the authority should have regard to any
material it thinks fit. There are links
with consideration of the condition of the property, and perhaps its amenities
and location. It is expected that in
most cases a direct inspection of the accommodation will be required to check
safety features and identify risks (unless there is a strong justification to
the contrary), as well as verification by other means that appropriate
standards are met, relevant certificates have been obtained, etc.
4.10.3 Examples of matters that should be
considered include gas and electrical safety, whether appropriate secure entry
and locking systems are in place, and wider issues such as whether fire safety
requirements are met and that the structure of the building is safe. It may
also be relevant to consider whether there are any identifiable risks in
accessing the building.
4.10.4 Examples of suggested standards to be
applied are as follows:
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