When you’re heading abroad to study, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where you will live. For many international students, renting a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) is a common choice. But you might have a lot of questions about it: What exactly is an HMO? Is it a safe and affordable option? Do you need to worry about licenses or hidden costs?
In this article, we’ll explain what HMOs are, their costs, and how they work. We’ll also answer some of the most common questions that international students like you may have about living in an HMO, including safety concerns, and help you make an informed decision. Let’s dive in!
Table of contents
- What are HMOs?
- What is the Full Form of HMO?
- Types of HMOs
- HMO License
- What are HMOs for International Students?
- HMO Costs for International Students
- How to Find HMOs for International Students
- Things to Consider Before Renting an HMO
- Benefits of Living in an HMO for International Students
- FAQs on What are HMOs?
What are HMOs?
An HMO, or House in Multiple Occupations, is a property that is rented by more than one person who is not part of the same family. This could mean a house or flat where each tenant has their own room but shares common areas like the kitchen and bathroom. HMOs are a popular choice for students because they are often cheaper than renting an entire flat on your own.
The UK government regulates HMOs to ensure the safety and quality of accommodation. But as a student, it’s important to understand what qualifies as an HMO and whether the property you’re considering is licensed and safe to live in.
What is the Full Form of HMO?
HMO stands for House of Multiple Occupations which over the years has become an increasingly popular type of accommodation and has proven to be advantageous to both tenants and investors. Due to an increasing demand for affordable housing options, HMOs have offered a practical solution. As per the Housing Act 2004, Large HMOs need a license to operate in the UK.
Also, not all HMOs are required to obtain a license but the ones that fit the definition of large HMOs must apply for one. Large HMOs are student accommodations in the United Kingdom that have 5 more tenants that share more than one facility like a bathroom, kitchen or toilet over more than three floors.
Also Read: Concerned about your safety while choosing a student accommodation? This blog will answer all of your queries – How to Choose Safe Student Accommodation While Studying Abroad?
Types of HMOs
There are different types of HMOs, depending on the number of tenants and the type of property. Each type of HMO has its own pros and cons. For example, a small HMO might be cheaper, but a large one could offer more social opportunities. Here are the most common types of HMOs:
- Small HMO: A house with three to six tenants. Often a great choice for students who want to live with a few housemates in a shared house.
- Large HMO: A property with more than six tenants. These can be larger houses or purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA).
- Student Accommodation HMO: Specifically designed for students, these properties may offer more student-friendly amenities like furnished rooms, common areas for socializing, and proximity to campus.
HMO License
One important thing to keep in mind when renting an HMO is whether the property is licensed. An HMO license is required for properties that are rented out to multiple tenants. The license ensures that the landlord complies with all safety and living standards.
You can check if the property you are interested in is licensed through the local council or by asking the landlord directly. A licensed HMO means the landlord has met all required health and safety standards, such as providing fire exits, proper heating, and good maintenance.
What are HMOs for International Students?
For international students, HMOs are a common choice because they offer affordable living options. You can rent a room in a shared house with other students or young professionals. Living in an HMO means you get to meet people from different backgrounds, which can be a great opportunity for cultural exchange.
It also helps you save money since you only pay for your room, not the entire house. However, it’s important to be mindful of certain things as an international student:
- Amenities: Not all HMOs come with the same amenities, so clarify what’s included in your rent.
- Safety: Always check the property’s license and ensure it’s in a safe neighbourhood.
- Privacy: Sharing a house with others means less privacy, so make sure you are comfortable with it.
HMO Costs for International Students
The cost of living in an HMO can vary depending on several factors, such as location, the type of HMO, and the number of tenants. Typically, HMOs are more affordable than renting an entire flat or house on your own.
Keep in mind that utilities (water, gas, electricity) and Wi-Fi may or may not be included in the rent, so ask your landlord or letting agent for full details. Here are the average HMO costs for international students to understand in a better way.
| Type of Accommodation | Average Rent per Month |
| Small HMO (3-6 tenants) | GBP 400 – GBP 650 |
| Large HMO (7+ tenants) | GBP 300 – GBP 500 |
| Student-Specific HMO | GBP 350 – GBP 700 |
Also Read: Not sure how long you can stay in a student accommodation? Our blog will help you greatly – How Long You Can Stay in Student Accommodation?
How to Find HMOs for International Students
Finding the right HMO can be tricky, but with a little research, you can find affordable, safe, and comfortable accommodation. So, if you are moving to a new country and looking for an HMO, then you should know about these tips. Here are some tips to help you in finding the right HMOs for international students
- Check Online Websites: Websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom can help you find HMOs. Make sure to filter for student-friendly options.
- Use the University Accommodation Portal: Many universities, including Bristol, have dedicated accommodation portals that list available HMOs. These listings often feature properties specifically suited for students.
- Check with Local Letting Agents: Local agents specialize in student housing and will be able to find HMOs that fit your budget and location preferences.
- Ask for Recommendations: Speak to other students or recent alumni to get recommendations for reliable landlords and safe neighbourhoods.
Things to Consider Before Renting an HMO
There are various things that you need to understand before renting an HMO. Before finalizing your HMO, you should consider various factors to avoid any issues later. So, when you are about to sign a contract, consider the following things before moving forward.
- Contract Terms: Read through the tenancy agreement carefully to understand rent, deposit, and maintenance responsibilities.
- Safety: Check that the property is licensed and has good security measures like locks on doors and windows. Do not compromise your security in a new country.
- Landlord’s Reputation: Ensure your landlord is trustworthy and responsive to your needs. Make sure that he/she has no suspicious records in their history.
- Location: Make sure the property is close to your university, transport links, and amenities. It should be easily accessible to the required places to avoid any commuting issues.
- Roommates: Be comfortable with the idea of sharing spaces. Talk to your future roommates before moving in.
Also Read: Not sure how to find a place to stay while studying abroad? Our blog will help you – How to Find Student Accommodation For Studying Abroad?
Benefits of Living in an HMO for International Students
Living in an HMO is considered affordable to various international students. There are different types of HMOs which come with their pros and cons. Here we have mentioned some of the benefits of living in an HMO for international students:
- Cultural Exchange: If you live with students from other countries, you can learn about new cultures and share your own. It will help you in being open to cultural diversity.
- Affordability: Rent is typically cheaper than private rentals because you share costs with housemates. It can help you to reduce the load on your budget in a new country.
- Socializing: Living with others helps you meet new people and make friends, which is especially important if you’re new to the country.
- Convenience: HMOs are often located near public transport, grocery stores, and universities. It helps in reducing your commute and access the essentials.
- Flexibility: Many landlords offer flexible contracts, ideal for students who need short-term accommodation.
HMOs are a popular and affordable choice for international students looking to live in the UK. They offer the opportunity to meet new people, save money, and live in a shared space that may be closer to your university. However, it’s essential to check if the property is licensed, ensure safety, and understand all costs involved. With careful research and planning, you can find an HMO that suits your needs and helps you enjoy your time abroad.
Hope you liked reading our blog about What are HMOs? For a stress-free stay during your study abroad adventure, choose Fly Homes. Call 1800572118 to reserve your ideal accommodation abroad with ease.
FAQs on What are HMOs?
Mentioned below are some of the tips that you should follow to find a good accommodation:
– Select a good location
– Go through the reviews of the place you are considering
– Become familiar with the amenities offered
– Consider the price factor
– Think about the accommodation type which is suitable for you and is in your budget.
HMOs, or Health Maintenance Organizations, are health insurance plans that offer coverage through a network of doctors and hospitals. They focus on providing affordable care with a primary care physician (PCP) coordinating all your treatments and referrals to specialists.
Fly Homes is the best website for student accommodation as it has a user-friendly interface. It provides comprehensive information and offers a lot of accommodation options to which students can choose.
HMO full form is House of Multiple Occupations which offers a practical solution to the rising demand for affordable housing options.
Yes, HMOs typically cover emergency care, even if it’s outside the network. However, for non-emergency services, you must use in-network providers or get approval first.
There are many benefits of HMOs residents get access to a supportive community, the rent is affordable, the commute becomes easier, etc.
An accommodation plan describes how people can ask for assistance, how the request will be handled and the length of time the assistance can be expected to take.
HMOs save money by negotiating lower rates with doctors and hospitals in their network. They also focus on preventive care, which can help avoid costly treatments down the line.
Premiums for HMOs are generally lower than other types of health insurance plans. Since HMOs focus on cost control and network care, the premiums tend to be more affordable.
No, with an HMO, you must see doctors within the network, except in emergencies. If you choose to see a provider outside the network, you will usually pay the full cost.
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