Frequently Asked Questions

Supported housing is a housing initiative for people who require assistance to live independently. In supported housing, tenants are provided with support, supervision, and assistance, provided by registered staff and, where applicable, in line with the Care Quality Commission.

People who have a learning disability or another support need can use supported housing for accommodation. This is often preferable to a care home, where the level of support provided is often much higher than required. Tenants are provided with the assistance to enjoy their independence and are typically helped with activities such as:

· cooking,

· cleaning,

· budgeting and shopping,

· accessing employment,

· education,

· socialisation opportunities,

· managing correspondence and finances.

A home becomes a house of multiple occupation (HMO) when both of the following apply:

1) At least three tenants occupy the property, forming more than one household,

2) A toilet, bathroom, or kitchen facility is shared with other tenants.

If five or more tenants are living in the property, this constitutes a large HMO. All large HMOs require a licence from the local council; otherwise, landlords risk prosecution. Support Properties works with landlords to provide the best possible solution for listing their property as a House of Multiple Occupancy, ensuring hassle-free service for landlords while keeping the needs of the service user central.

In October 2018, the law regarding the licensing of Houses in Multiple Occupation changed, with properties accommodating five or more people (a large HMO) requiring a license.

Local councils may include licensing for other types of HMOs. We recommended you contact your local governing body to see if your property requires a license.

Please use the contact form provided on our website or the email below. Please provide the following information:

· Asking rent,

· Full address(es) of the property being referred,

· Property description – e.g., detached house with three double bedrooms, two bathrooms, shared kitchen, etc.

Supported housing can be offered in properties that would typically be let in the private sector to single tenants and families. As a result of this, significant adaptations are not usually required. Minor adjustments may need to be made in some cases, such as adding ramps and handrails if required by the service users.

Fire safety can require adaptations to a support property; fire doors, fire alarms and emergency lighting are usually required.