Protecting family homes and empowering communities – Council moves to act on HMOs

All conversions to Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) could soon need full planning permission in North Lincolnshire – closing a loophole that allows rogue landlords to sidestep local scrutiny.

Councillors have approved an Article 4 Direction that, once confirmed, will mean all conversions to HMOs require full planning permission. This will give residents a voice, raise housing standards, and protect the character of local neighbourhoods.

Until now, landlords could convert family homes into small HMOs without planning permission. Residents had no say, often leading to overcrowding, parking pressures, and the loss of family housing.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “Families want safe, stable neighbourhoods – not streets hollowed out by badly run HMOs. We are drawing a line in the sand: homes must work for local people, not be exploited by rogue landlords.

“This is not something councils do lightly – it is rare to take this step and follows a lengthy legal process. But where family homes are at risk, and where communities are being undermined, we will act. This is about standing up for residents and making sure housing serves the people who live here.”

The Article 4 Direction was approved at a Full Council meeting and will now be subject to public consultation before being confirmed. If confirmed, it will remove the automatic right to convert properties into HMOs, meaning every proposal will face proper scrutiny and local people will have their say.

Cllr Richard Hannigan, cabinet member for adults and health, said: “We know that poor-quality HMOs can have a devastating impact – not just on tenants but on whole neighbourhoods. This is about raising standards, protecting vulnerable residents from exploitation, and making sure communities remain safe, supportive places for families to grow and thrive.

“We know most landlords provide decent homes and play a positive role. This isn’t about them – it is about tackling the small minority who cut corners, cram people into poor conditions and damage whole communities. Families deserve better, and we are sticking up for them.”

The Article 4 Direction is part of the council’s wider drive to focus on what matters most – protecting neighbourhoods, supporting families, and ensuring every resident has access to good-quality, safe housing.

The next step is a formal consultation, where residents and landlords can give their views. After this, the council will consider the feedback before deciding whether to confirm the Article 4 Direction and bring it into full effect.