Definitions

Habitable storey

Habitable storeys include all those in residential occupation (even if self-contained). This includes any storeys occupied by you and your family if you are a resident landlord. Basements and attics should be included if they are occupied, have been converted for occupation or are used in connection with the HMO's occupation. Business premises on the ground or any upper floor should also be counted, although a basement used for business or storage need not be counted (unless it's the only means of access to the HMO from the street).

Household

The following are considered to be households for the purposes of HMO licensing:

• Members of the same family living together. This includes married couples or those living as married couples (including same sex couples).
• Relatives living together. This includes parents, grandparents, children (and step-children), grandchildren, brothers, sisters, uncles, aunts, nephews, nieces and cousins. Half-relatives are treated as full relatives and a foster child living with his or her foster parent is treated as living in the same household as their foster parent.

So, for example, three friends sharing together would constitute three households. If a couple are sharing with a third person that would consist of two households. If a family rents a property it's classed as a single household.

Self-contained accommodation

For a flat or part of a property to be considered self-contained it must have a kitchen (or cooking area), bathroom and toilet in it and these must be for the sole use of those living in it. If you have to leave the flat to use any of these facilities it can't be classed as self-contained.