A move to stop HMOs being used as Airbnb or other short lets has been put forward in the westcountry – and some behind the ban do not want agents or others to be consulted over the move.

North Devon council’s strategy and resources committee agrees that HMOs should not be let out as holiday accommodation but is split over whether it should be the subject of public consultation.

There are an estimated 1,100 HMOs in North Devon and 1,867 businesses registered as having holiday units. 

Media reports in the region says the proposal will mean amending the council’s HMO rules with a six-week consultation with agents and landlords recommended by officers.

But Liberal Democrat councillors David Clayton and Graham Bell claim there is no legal requirement to consult, so the rules should change immediately.

“Let’s show everyone we mean business on this. There is a huge depth of feeling over the lack of rented properties. Something needs to be done about it” Clayton is quoted as saying.

Bell is quoted: “I am very much against a consultation. Once the landlords of the HMOs start talking to each other, they are very likely to pull out and just use their properties for holiday lets.”

However council chairperson Ian Roome  – another Liberal Democrat – told the authority that to be in the clear legally it should consult and “show that we are listening to people’s views.”

The council says the risks involved in short-term holiday lets in HMOs as well as a reduction in privately rented rooms for residents are:

– Safeguarding and security risks because of the transient nature of Airbnb guests;

– The potential for violence and antisocial behaviour as Airbnb guests may not be as stringently vetted as permanent residents;

– Increased risk of fire as PAT testing of appliances can’t be enforced with Airbnb guests; and 

– Reduction in the availability of private rented properties for local
residents.