FAQs by Landlords
Is an HMO a good investment?
Yes, provided there is room demand in the area and the property is compliant with local regulations, HMOs can be a strong investment strategy.
A well-managed HMO typically generates significantly higher returns compared to a single-let property.
Another advantage is that issues with one tenancy don’t affect the entire house, as each tenant usually has a separate agreement. This makes it easier to handle problems independently.
Landlords and managers also have more control and can inspect common areas at any time without needing permission.
A well-managed HMO typically generates significantly higher returns compared to a single-let property.
Another advantage is that issues with one tenancy don’t affect the entire house, as each tenant usually has a separate agreement. This makes it easier to handle problems independently.
Landlords and managers also have more control and can inspect common areas at any time without needing permission.
What do I need to run a compliant HMO?
A typical HMO requires: an HMO licence, Gas Safety Certificate, EPC, Electrical Installation Condition Report, PAT testing, fire alarm certificate, emergency lighting certificate, a fire risk assessment, and (in some cases) planning permission.
What does it take to self-manage HMOs?
Managing an HMO is significantly more demanding than a single-let. Tenants expect quick responses to maintenance issues, and you must manage furniture, white goods, utilities, broadband, cleaning, and safety compliance.
Most work, such as inspections and certifications, must be done by qualified engineers. You’ll need trusted contractors and an understanding of fair market pricing.
There’s also the tenant cycle—marketing rooms, viewings, check-ins/outs—and potentially managing disputes between tenants.
Most work, such as inspections and certifications, must be done by qualified engineers. You’ll need trusted contractors and an understanding of fair market pricing.
There’s also the tenant cycle—marketing rooms, viewings, check-ins/outs—and potentially managing disputes between tenants.
What do HMO managers do?
HMO managers are responsible for ensuring properties comply with the Management of Houses in Multiple Occupation (England) Regulations 2006.
Management companies differ in scope. At Prime Property Care, we handle everything: licensing, certification, tenant communication, utility bills, maintenance, and compliance.
Management companies differ in scope. At Prime Property Care, we handle everything: licensing, certification, tenant communication, utility bills, maintenance, and compliance.
What is my involvement if you manage my HMO?
We aim to keep landlord involvement minimal. Some landlords pre-approve budgets and only receive a bi-annual call and monthly reports. Others prefer closer involvement with decisions.
Regardless of preference, we fully handle communication, complaints, inspections, certificates, and tenant changes—keeping you informed monthly.
Regardless of preference, we fully handle communication, complaints, inspections, certificates, and tenant changes—keeping you informed monthly.
What’s included in your management fee?
Our management fee covers:
- All certificates and safety checks
- Room decorating and marketing
- Viewings and tenant referencing
- Signing AST agreements
- Regular inspections
- Rent collection and arrears management
- Utility bill handling
- Maintenance coordination
- Housekeeping
- Marketing costs
- Monthly financial reports
- HMO licence application/renewals
What’s not included in your management fee?
- Utility costs, broadband, insurance, council tax, and cleaning
- Repairs or replacements of furniture and white goods
- Contractor fees for services like boiler repairs or certifications
What are the biggest risks with HMOs?
Risks include non-paying tenants, non-compliance with HMO regulations, poor referencing, and inadequate safety measures.
HMOs carry higher risk due to stricter legal requirements, but good management mitigates most of these.
HMOs carry higher risk due to stricter legal requirements, but good management mitigates most of these.
Can you set up my property as an HMO and license it?
Yes. We handle full setup in line with local regulations, including HMO licensing, required certificates, fire risk assessments, and inspections. This is part of our management service.
Who will live in my HMO?
We let to working professionals across all age groups, particularly 30+. All tenants pass income checks, CCJ and Right to Rent checks, and provide landlord references.
We prioritise character and community fit—every new tenant is like adding to our PPC family.
We prioritise character and community fit—every new tenant is like adding to our PPC family.
How do you manage utilities?
We manage all utilities and monitor usage bi-weekly. We also implement smart meters, timers, motion sensors, and educate tenants to reduce wastage.
How long does it take to get my HMO ready and rented?
If setup is needed (fire safety, furnishing, licensing), it may take up to 2 months.
If the property is ready, we typically rent it within a month—sometimes even in a week—depending on area, size, and rent.
If the property is ready, we typically rent it within a month—sometimes even in a week—depending on area, size, and rent.
I want to refer someone. Do you offer a referral fee?
Yes, we offer £200–£500 for landlord referrals, depending on the size and number of rooms. It’s paid after 3 months of successful management. Learn more here.
If you have any other questions, please click below to book a call with us. A member of our team will be happy to help: