Consultation launched on use of HMOs as holiday lets

North Devon Council has taken a step towards addressing concerns related to the letting of rooms within licensed Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) for short-term holiday rentals.

In response to a recent inquiry from an agent, it was discovered that the existing amenity standards for licensed HMOs, approved on September 5, 2022, do not explicitly cover the issue of short-term holiday letting of individual rooms within such properties.

To ensure transparency and the best interests of the community, the council is initiating a consultation process. This consultation will focus on whether rooms within licensed properties should be permitted for rental on a short-term holiday basis.

The consultation process has begun and will run until Tuesday, October 31, 2023. It is open to public comments and engagement.

Lead member for housing at North Devon Council, councillor Graham Bell said: "We believe that engaging with our community on these important matters is essential to crafting policies that reflect the needs and concerns of our residents. The input of the community is invaluable in shaping the future of housing regulations in our area so I would encourage individuals to take part."

To participate in the consultation, residents can visit the council's website or to obtain a physical copy, residents are encouraged to visit Lynton House in Barnstaple, The Amory Centre in South Molton or The Ilfracombe Centre.