Reigate plans Article 4 controls for small HMOs

Landlords could face new planning restrictions when converting family homes into small HMOs in Reigate and Banstead.

Reigate and Banstead Borough Council is consulting on an Article 4 direction that would remove permitted development rights for conversions housing between three and six residents.

A full planning application would then be required before a home could be changed into a small house in multiple occupation.

HMOs for seven or more people already require planning permission.

Planning checks proposed

Kate Fairhurst, the council’s executive member for place, planning and regulatory services, said: “HMOs can provide an important source of lower-cost housing for people who need it, and these proposals are not about preventing them.

“However, we have seen an increase in the number of HMOs in the borough and complaints about them.”

She added: “So, we want to put planning checks in place to help us make sure that future HMOs are in appropriate locations, are well designed, and do not have a negative impact on local communities.

“Many of our neighbouring councils have already taken similar steps to manage pressures in their local areas.”

HMO consultation opens

The consultation opened on 30 July and will run for eight weeks, closing on 24 September 2026.

Residents, landlords, property owners and others with an interest in local housing are being invited to comment.

The council said planning applications would allow it to consider the location, design and accommodation standards of proposed HMOs.

Council officers would also assess the possible effect of each conversion on neighbours and the surrounding community.

Decision due later

Once the consultation has closed, the council will review the representations received before deciding whether to confirm the direction.

If approved, the new planning controls would come into force on 30 July 2027.

Consultation documents are available through the council’s Article 4 direction for Houses in Multiple Occupation page.

People without internet access can inspect the proposals at Reigate Town Hall on weekdays.