Story perspectives

Reform Councils Use Article 4, Threaten HMO Housing Crunch

5/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

Reform-run councils are preparing Article 4 orders that would require planning permission before any house-in-multiple-occupation conversion.
After winning 14 councils in the May 2026 local elections, Reform UK announced tighter HMO planning rules for those authorities.
Landlords such as Wendy Whittaker-Large warn the crackdown could shrink affordable housing, raise rents and increase homelessness.
Legal counsel warns councils could face six-figure compensation if they revoke HMO rights with under twelve months’ notice.

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Story summary

Reform-run councils are preparing Article 4 orders that would require planning permission before any house-in-multiple-occupation conversion.
After winning 14 councils in the May 2026 local elections, Reform UK announced tighter HMO planning rules for those authorities.
Landlords such as Wendy Whittaker-Large warn the crackdown could shrink affordable housing, raise rents and increase homelessness.
Legal counsel warns councils could face six-figure compensation if they revoke HMO rights with under twelve months’ notice.