North Lincolnshire Council will hold an extraordinary meeting to address concerns over the rapid expansion of houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) and their living standards. The meeting, initiated by opposition Labour councillors, follows reports of increasing HMOs in Scunthorpe and resident complaints about housing conditions.
A council review identified 110 suspected HMOs in just two wards—Crosby and Park, and Town and Frodingham—raising questions about regulatory oversight. Only 25 HMOs in North Lincolnshire hold mandatory licences, which are required for properties with five or more tenants sharing kitchen or bathroom facilities.
Labour councillors argue that local authorities elsewhere have imposed stricter controls and are calling for similar action. A motion on the issue will be discussed, and the meeting must take place by late April.
The council is already working on implementing selective licensing for landlords, a measure supported across party lines. In September, the ruling Conservative group approved selective licensing in parts of Scunthorpe.
