Issue - meetings

To note the update report from the Environmental Health Department on Houses in Multiple Occupation.

Fidelma Bahoshy, Joint Senior Environmental Health Manager presented the report on Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) in Spelthorne, providing an update on the current situation and the work being undertaken by the Environmental Health (EH) department. The report highlighted an increase in HMO applications and complaints over the past few months, and the need for a clear policy to manage these effectively. The EH department was responsible for implementing the HMO licensing regime, conducting compliance visits, and investigating complaints about both licensed and unlicensed HMOs.

During the discussion, the Committee expressed concerns about the disruption caused by HMOs during the construction process and the refusal of some applicants to comply with building regulations. It was noted that applicants often used third-party regulators instead of the Council's building regulation service. Fidelma confirmed this trend and mentioned that the team was investigating these complaints. She also addressed concerns about basic sanitation and the lack of washing facilities on some HMO construction sites, assuring that the team investigated such complaints thoroughly.

The Committee highlighted the high volume of HMO applications and the shortage of staff to handle them. Fidelma acknowledged the national shortage of Environmental Health Officers and the difficulty in recruiting experienced staff. She mentioned that the team were reviewing their needs and exploring ways to expedite the licensing process. Members suggested the possibility of recruiting apprentices and considering partnership working with neighbouring Council’s to address the staffing shortage. Fidelma noted that other councils faced similar challenges and mentioned our backlog of 39 HMO applications, with each taking approximately 11 hours to process, excluding site visits. The team continued to manage the HMO process and prioritise certain cases as necessary.

Committee resolved to note the contents of the report.

Meeting ended: 21:52pm