Is the property an HMO?
A property is commonly an HMO when at least three tenants forming more than one household share a toilet, bathroom or kitchen. Friends renting together are usually separate households for this definition.
A large HMO has at least five tenants forming more than one household with shared facilities and generally needs a licence in England and Wales.
Check the local position
Ask the landlord for the licence details and verify them with the local council. Some councils operate additional or selective licensing, so a smaller house may also need approval.
A licence is not a quality badge by itself, but it shows the council has a route to set occupancy and management conditions.
Inspect shared-house safety
Look for clear escape routes, appropriate fire detection, secure doors, maintained communal areas and enough kitchen and bathroom facilities for the number of occupants. Ask how repairs and waste are managed.
Report serious hazards or an apparently unlicensed licensable HMO to the council. Keep dated photos and written repair reports.