New, more detailed HMO inspection reports
In late 2019 the Edinburgh Council inspectors started using new electronic inspection forms, containing 10 to 36 fields per room. Hallway has 10 items, bedrooms 26 items, kitchen 36 items, so the new inspection regime is, in our opinion, more thorough than the previous system as it is less prone to human mistakes and items being overlooked. The new inspections records show what the HMO inspectors are looking for, besides the obvious fire safety; compliance certificates and good general standards.
What are room-specific HMO requirements?
Please bear in mind that we picked only some requirements, the ones that seemed most interesting, as this post does not cover fire safety related issues. It is not an all-inclusive list of HMO checks. To have a broader overview of HMO requirements and the licencing process, please contact the Edinburgh Council Licencing Team directly.
- Hallway: At least 4 electric sockets. Carpeted. Sufficient ventilation.
- WC: Seals bonded to surfaces and mould free. Walls and ceilings mould and condensation free. IP rated (water resistant) lights. All windows openable while standing on floor. Cushioned vinyl flooring.
If you have any questions regarding investing in residential properties in Edinburgh, please get in touch with us:
- Living room: At least 6 sockets. Carpeted.
- Bedroom: Width and length measured, total area calculated. Minimum bedroom width is 2.25m. At least 6 sockets. If boiler present – sealed type. Carpeted.
- Kitchen: Following appliances checked and their number recorded: sinks, dishwashers, food storage cabinets, worktops’ length, grills, ovens, hobs, microwaves, fridges, freezers .At least 1m of activity space in front of oven. At least 300mm of workspace at either side of the hob. Clear and readable controls on hobs and ovens. Sink seals water tight and free from mould. At least 2m of worktops for 3 people and 0.6m for each additional person. At least 6 sockets. At least 1 sink with an integral drainer per 5 tenants. Adequate storage/drawer space – 1m³ for 5 tenants and then 0.2m per each additional person. Suitable ventilation. Cushioned vinyl flooring.
- Bathroom: Suitable ventilation. Cushioned vinyl flooring Seals bonded to surfaces and mould free. Walls and ceilings mould and condensation free. IP rated (water resistant) lights. All windows openable while standing on floor.
Post-HMO inspection to do lists
The drawback for the landlords, letting agents and investors is: the previous inspections reports contained a list of tasks to do, which was very easy to follow. The landlords had to implement all recommendations and did not need to delve into details of the inspections. Now, all items in each room have ‘Outcome’ and ‘Notes’ fields, so the whole inspection report needs to be studied, even if nearly all ‘Outcome’ fields are Satisfactory and do not require further actions. It is not as easy to follow as the previous to do list.
Hardwired fire and smoke alarms
Did you know that although ‘regular’ rental flats in Scotland can be supplied with sealed battery and interlinked smoke/heat alarms, this exemption does not apply to HMO properties – HMO inspectors will be looking for hard wired, interlinked detectors with a battery backup.
Andrew White2024-04-10Great viewing with Fraser today, Fraser talked through the property details and answered my questions. Seemed very professional and welcoming
Tarila Gbabo2024-04-10Smooth experience altogether. Great customer service experience from Fraser. Got a good understanding of the property and the area. A true credit to the company.
Tay Baillie scott2024-04-09Fraser was amazing when it came to doing my viewing. He answered all my questions when needed
Paul Manson2024-04-05ELC was recommended to me and they have now dealt with my property letting’s a couple of times. I can’t recommend them highly enough! 5 star treatment from start to finish.
KELECHI OFFOR2024-04-05I had a wonderful experience during the viewing, and Fraser Jamieson conducted it with professionalism, addressing all my inquiries respectfully. I was truly impressed. Keep up the excellent work!
Ilusanmi Ayorinde2024-04-05The experience and the service is excellent. Always ready to provide information and assistance.
Dana Russell2024-04-04Fraser was very welcoming, friendly and answered any questions we had. Would recommend this company to anyone!
Femi Faleke2024-04-03Fraser conducted our show round and had kind words for us. He was really positive even when we were both unsure of our chances to get the accommodation as the buck doesn't stop with him. But I like his spirit and he's good for business. Great guy...
Imran Razzaq2024-04-03Viewing was very friendly and polite
kjb 5372024-04-03Returning to the UK after a long period abroad, I called into ELC to express interest in a property and to ask for some advice about how best to make a rental application without the usual UK credit record information. Nicole and Fraser were extremely helpful and reassuring. Highly recommended. Much more personal and personable service than some of the larger Edinburgh agencies.