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Written question asked by Peter Fortune (Conservative) on Tuesday, 9 September 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 11 September 2025. It was answered by Matthew Pennycook (Labour) on Wednesday, 17 September 2025 on behalf of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.


Permitted Development Rights: Multiple Occupation

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, if he will take steps to protect family homes from being converted into houses in multiple occupation.

Answer

National permitted development rights allow a C3 dwellinghouse to change use to a C4 House in Multiple Occupation for up to six people sharing facilities without the need for a planning application.

Larger Houses in Multiple Occupation require a planning application which the local authority will determine in-line with the local plan and in consultation with neighbours.

Local authorities can remove the permitted development right for HMOs of up to 6 people to protect local amenity or wellbeing of the area by introducing an ‘Article 4’ direction.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
76143
Session
2024-26
Related items
Permitted Development Rights: Multiple Occupation
Monday, 3 November 2025
Written questions
House of Commons
Subjects
Multiple occupation Permitted development rights
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk