CHANGES in the law could see more homes in multiple occupation (HMOs) needing to register with the local council.

And for some it could mean a large increase in the fees they have to pay.

Most of the HMOs which need licensing locally are found in Weymouth and Portland – around 50 under existing rules, compared to six in the West Dorset District Council area and ten in North Dorset.

Changes in the law may result in at least a doubling locally of the homes which will need to be licensed for the first time.

The three council areas are now preparing to to move to a simplified fee system for licensing which they say reflects the true cost of the service. Each area would charge the same if the proposals are finally approved.

Fees are expected to be set at £650 for a new application for a five-person home in multiple occupation for a five year period – and £550 for a renewal, with discounts of around 10 per cent available for landlords who sign up to ‘approved landlord’ schemes.

The proposed figure, with discounts added in, is roughly in line with current charges in Weymouth and Portland – although well above the £100 flat rate fee charged by West Dorset and the £332 set for a first licence in North Dorset.

West Dorset’s Strategy Committee heard that Government changes will bring more properties into mandatory licensing – extending it to properties occupied by five or more persons in two or more households.

The new rules will include minimum sleeping room sizes and maximum number of occupants with the need for a licence extended to HMOs below three storeys and flats that are in multiple occupation above commercial premises.

The council has the ability to either impose a civil penalty of up to £30,000 for non-compliance with licensing requirements, or to prosecute in the courts.

Dorchester councillor Stella Jones: “I welcome these changes. They will give more security and safety for tenants.”

After the meeting Cllr Gill Taylor, Weymouth & Portland Borough Council’s Briefholder for Housing, said: “Weymouth and Portland have a high number of HMOs compared to the surrounding areas. Through these new regulations, even more are likely to be identified. The bigger catchment will bring properties to our attention that might not be suitable and we can then work with the property owner to find a solution."