A requirement to implement a system of licensing for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO), has been placed on local authorities by law under ‘The
Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982 (Licensing of Houses in Multiple Occupation), Order 2000.
This has been introduced to provide increased safety for tenants and neighbours by ensuring this type of accommodation meets certain
minimum standards and is properly managed.
The requirement includes a Fire Safety Clause, which demands that there is a fire detection and alarm system along with adequate illumination of
escape routes in all HMO establishments.
This legislation is of particular importance to –
- Letting Agents
- Landlords
- Housing Associations
- B&B’s and Guest Houses
- Hostels
Before an HMO license is granted, an electrical safety check of both the fixed electrical installation and electrical equipment contained within the
HMO must carried out by a competent person and appropriate documentation issued to the client. This effectively requires the licensee to have a
periodic Inspection and Test carried out in accordance with BS7671. The maximum time interval between inspections is 3 years or at change of tenency,
whichever is sooner.
Graham Robertson Electrical specialise in this area and are happy to advise you, survey and inspect properties, issuing a report and a no obligation
quotation for remedial work. Please contact us to discuss your individual requirements.
Full details of the license requirements can be obtained by contacting the Marketing Department at Graham Robertson
Electrical, or, by contacting your local authority, Environmental Services Department.