At the end of November 2025, Hillingdon Council gave the green light for plans to change rules for HMOs in the area. This saw the introduction of a new borough-wide Article 4 Direction. An update about it was written on the Council’s website in December. We want to have a closer look here so investors and property owners are aware of the change. Then, if you need help with property investment in Hillingdon, you can rely on us.
The change
The new Article 4 Direction means that property owners in any part of Hillingdon will now need planning permission to convert a home (class C3) into a small HMO. Previously this was only necessary in two wards; Brunel and Uxbridge South. In other parts of the borough, conversion into HMOs was part of the permitted development rights. As a result, conversions were possible for small HMOs as long as they were for 3-6 sharers.
Why has the council made this decision?
Hillingdon Council gave the change a green light to help address the number of HMOs in the borough, the impact on neighbourhoods, and the potential risk to tenants. Crucially, because of previous permitted development rights, there are fears there are as many as 1,800 hidden HMO properties in the borough.
One of the major concerns about HMOs is the impact on the character of neighbourhoods. Too many of them, or allowing them in unsuitable areas, can lead to problems like anti-social behaviour and overcrowding. So, the council is looking to do more to police them. If you’re thinking about property investment in Hillingdon, speak to us.
The most notable thing about the change is Hillingdon Council can now control exactly where HMOs are. They’ll be able to decline permission if they feel a HMO is unsuited to an area. Plus, they’ll have a greater knowledge of where new HMOs are in the borough.
Even more crucially, requiring planning permission means the council can work to improve standards. They will be able to prevent conversions that would deliver HMOs that aren’t fit for purpose. This can include key things like rooms that don’t meet minimum size requirements.
Hillingdon Council is also planning to do more in the future to monitor and police HMOs in the borough. The goal is to increase standards and protect residents. Notably, they are consulting on proposals to introduce additional licensing to maintain standards.
Talk to us about property investment in Hillingdon
London has been a popular spot for property investment for a long time. As a result, it’s the target of investors from all around the world. There are plenty of opportunities, including HMOs, because there is demand for various types of housing. However, it is important to think about rules like Article 4 Directions and licensing. They can have an impact on what you can do and the costs.
If you’re thinking about property investment in Hillingdon and other parts of the city, you can rely on us to help. Finefair Ltd has a wealth of experience with different assets, including houses, flats, HMOs, and more. We can help you to decide the perfect strategy. Plus, we can arrange guaranteed rent to secure your finances.
So, get in touch today if you have questions or want some advice.
