Harrow Council is intensifying its efforts to combat the proliferation of illegal Houses of Multiple Occupation (HMOs) across the borough, with a particular focus on areas like Headstone.

During a recent Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting, councillors raised concerns about the challenges in monitoring these properties, often relying on reports from residents and local councillors. Fly-tipping, especially residential waste, has been identified as a potential indicator of illegal HMOs.

In response, the council is exploring the extension of its selective licensing regime to more wards, as well as renewing it in existing ones. While the specific wards being considered for extension were not detailed in the meeting information, the initiative aims to ensure safety and adequate refuse facilities in rental properties, whether they are licensed HMOs or not.

Councillor Paul Osborn, Leader of the Council, highlighted that monitoring illegal HMOs is complex, but the council is committed to addressing the issue. He noted that a significant portion of fly-tipping in the borough is residential waste, often originating from HMOs, licensed or unlicensed.

The council is also looking to re-procure providers for certain enforcement services. While some functions, such as fly-tipping enforcement, have been brought in-house, the council has found that this approach doesn't work as effectively when you have it in house . The council did look at that but we weren't convinced and it's worth noting a very few bars do it in house .

The council is also considering making it more difficult for new HMOs to be established and to prevent their concentration on individual streets. This includes exploring Article 4 directives, which would require HMOs with fewer than six occupants to obtain planning permission, a process currently bypassed through permitted development.

The council aims to reward good landlords and attract responsible property management while taking a firm stance against those who fail to meet standards. This approach is seen as a way to proactively manage housing needs and homelessness demands within the borough.

More information on the council's housing strategies can be found in the Public reports pack Tuesday 13-Jan-2026 18.30 Overview and Scrutiny Committee.