Landlord and HMO Registration
All landlords renting properties should either be registered or have submitted a valid application for registration. If not, it is offence for them to let property (unless it is exempt). This aims to make sure that all private landlords are `fit and proper’ to be renting properties.
You can find out whether a landlord is registered by checking the address of the rented property or their name on the Scottish Government’s website: www.landlordregistrationscotland.gov.uk
Landlords and Agents can also register on-line by visiting this site. Paper application forms are also available from all Highland Council Service Points or from the Council’s Licensing Officer (01349 868759).
More information is available from the Council’s Licensing Officer or visit the Scottish Government’s website:
http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Built-Environment/Housing/privaterent
Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO’s)
There is also a compulsory licensing scheme for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO’s). HMO’s are properties where 3 or more people from more than 2 unrelated families live (e.g. in bed-sits and shared flats). They must have a Council licence to operate. Licences are only granted to HMO properties which meet the Council’s accommodation and housing management standards and are in a reasonable condition, managed to acceptable standards and where health and safety is adequately maintained. Anyone moving into an HMO should check whether it has a licence.
Licensing is to make sure tenants can live safely in their houses, have adequate facilities and a fair tenancy agreement. If you have any concerns regarding your home's licence, your tenancy agreement, fire, gas or electrical safety, poor facilities, standards of repair, overcrowding or if you want general advice on HMO’s, please contact the Council’s Environmental Health Officers (TEC Services) by calling the Council’s Service Centre on 01463 702000 or emailing envhealth@highland.gov.uk
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