Lesson 1 – Understanding HMOs in Wales

This lesson provides a comprehensive introduction to Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) in Wales. Learners will explore the legal definition of an HMO, the different categories of HMO accommodation, and the legislation governing their operation.

The lesson explains the key differences between HMOs and traditional single-let properties, while outlining the additional legal duties and management responsibilities that HMO landlords must fulfil to remain compliant and protect their tenants.

Lesson 2 – HMO Licensing Requirements

This lesson explains the licensing requirements that apply to Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) in Wales. Learners will explore mandatory licensing rules, additional licensing schemes operated by local authorities, and circumstances where exemptions may apply.

The lesson also guides landlords through the HMO licence application process, explains common licence conditions, and highlights the consequences of operating an HMO without the appropriate licence.

Lesson 3 – Rent Smart Wales Compliance

This lesson examines the legal requirements of Rent Smart Wales and its role in regulating landlords and letting agents operating in Wales. Learners will understand landlord registration obligations, licensing requirements for self-managing landlords, and the rules governing licensed agents.

The lesson also covers ongoing compliance responsibilities, record-keeping requirements, and the penalties that may be imposed for failing to comply with Rent Smart Wales legislation.

Lesson 1 – Occupation Contracts and HMOs

This lesson introduces the occupation contract system used in Wales and explains how it applies to Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). Learners will examine the different types of occupation contracts, including fixed-term and periodic contracts, and understand the rights and protections afforded to contract-holders.

The lesson also covers the legal requirement to provide written statements and highlights the importance of ensuring occupation contracts are accurate, compliant, and suitable for shared accommodation.

Lesson 2 – Contract Terms and House Rules

This lesson explores the different types of terms that make up an occupation contract in Wales, including fundamental, supplementary, and additional terms.

Learners will understand how lawful and enforceable house rules can be used to manage HMOs effectively, promote harmonious living, and reduce disputes between occupiers.

The lesson also examines best practices for managing shared accommodation and ensuring that contract terms remain fair, clear, and compliant with Welsh housing law.

Lesson 3 – Equality and Anti-Discrimination

This lesson explains the legal obligations placed on HMO landlords under equality and anti-discrimination legislation.

Learners will explore the protected characteristics covered by the Equality Act, understand when reasonable adjustments may be required, and learn how to avoid unlawful discrimination during advertising, tenant selection, property management, and possession processes. 

The lesson also provides best practice guidance for fair and transparent tenant selection procedures that promote compliance and reduce legal risk.

Lesson 1 – Fire Safety Requirements

This lesson examines the fire safety obligations that apply to HMO landlords in Wales. Learners will explore the importance of fire risk assessments, the installation and maintenance of smoke alarms, the role of fire doors in preventing the spread of fire and smoke, and the requirements for safe escape routes.

The lesson also covers emergency lighting systems and highlights how effective fire safety management helps protect occupiers, reduce risks, and ensure compliance with HMO licensing and housing legislation.

Lesson 2 – Housing Health and Safety Rating System

This lesson introduces the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS), which local authorities use to assess housing conditions and identify risks to occupiers.

Learners will explore common hazards found in HMOs, including damp and mould, excess cold, and electrical dangers, and understand how these issues can affect health and safety. 

The lesson also explains local authority enforcement powers and the steps landlords can take to identify hazards early, maintain compliance, and provide safe accommodation for contract-holders.

Lesson 2 – Housing Health and Safety Rating System

This lesson provides an overview of the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS), the framework used by local authorities to assess health and safety risks in residential properties.

Learners will examine common hazards affecting HMOs, including damp and mould, excess cold, and electrical dangers, and understand how these issues can impact occupier health and property compliance. 

The lesson also explains the difference between Category One and Category Two hazards and outlines the enforcement powers available to local authorities when serious risks are identified.

Lesson 1 – Furnishing and Equipping an HMO

This lesson explores the practical requirements for furnishing and equipping a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) in Wales.

Learners will examine bedroom size and furnishing expectations, the provision of shared facilities, furniture safety standards, and the selection and maintenance of appliances and equipment.

The lesson also covers amenity standards commonly required by local authorities and HMO licensing schemes, helping landlords create safe, comfortable, and compliant accommodation for occupiers.

Lesson 2 – HMO Management Regulations

This lesson examines the management regulations that apply to HMOs in Wales and the responsibilities placed on landlords to ensure properties are properly maintained and managed.

Learners will explore requirements relating to the maintenance of common parts, waste disposal arrangements, utility services, and the display of statutory notices.

The lesson also covers the obligation to provide landlord or manager contact information and explains how effective compliance with HMO management regulations helps protect occupiers, support licensing requirements, and reduce the risk of enforcement action.

Lesson 3 – Insurance and Risk Management

This lesson examines the importance of insurance and risk management for HMO landlords in Wales. Learners will explore the different types of insurance commonly required for HMOs, including specialist HMO insurance, public liability cover, and building insurance.

The lesson also covers the role of risk assessments in identifying and reducing potential hazards, as well as effective incident management procedures to help protect occupiers, minimise financial losses, and support ongoing legal and licensing compliance.

Lesson 1 – Advertising and Tenant Screening

This lesson explores the process of attracting suitable occupiers and conducting effective tenant screening for HMOs in Wales. Learners will examine how to market vacant rooms professionally, assess applications through referencing and affordability checks, and understand when guarantors may be appropriate.

The lesson also covers common forms of tenancy fraud and the steps landlords can take to verify information, reduce risk, and select reliable contract-holders while complying with relevant legal requirements.

Lesson 2 – Deposits and Financial Protection

This lesson explains the rules governing security deposits in Welsh HMOs and the responsibilities landlords have when handling tenant money.

Learners will explore deposit protection requirements, the provision of prescribed information, and the procedures for safeguarding deposits in approved schemes. 

The lesson also examines common causes of deposit disputes, the evidence required to support deductions, and best practices for returning deposits fairly and efficiently at the end of an occupation contract.

Lesson 2 – Repairs and Maintenance

This lesson examines the responsibilities of HMO landlords for maintaining properties in a safe and habitable condition. Learners will explore landlord repairing obligations, effective systems for reporting maintenance issues, and the procedures for dealing with emergency repairs.

The lesson also covers contractor selection and management, planned maintenance programmes, and the importance of maintenance schedules in preventing property deterioration, supporting compliance, and ensuring occupier satisfaction.

Lesson 3 – Managing Tenant Behaviour

This lesson examines the challenges of managing occupier behaviour within HMOs and maintaining a safe and harmonious living environment.

Learners will explore how to address anti-social behaviour, respond to noise complaints, implement visitor policies, and resolve disputes between occupiers sharing facilities. 

The lesson also covers the use of warning procedures, record-keeping, and communication strategies to help landlords manage issues fairly, consistently, and in accordance with legal and contractual obligations.

Lesson 1 – Possession Procedures in Wales

This lesson provides an overview of the legal procedures for recovering possession of an HMO in Wales.

Learners will explore the circumstances in which possession may be sought, including no-fault possession, serious rent arrears, and breaches of occupation contracts.

The lesson explains notice requirements, the evidence needed to support possession claims, and the court procedures that landlords must follow to regain possession lawfully while complying with the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016.

Lesson 3 – Resolving Tenant Disputes

This lesson explores practical methods for resolving disputes between landlords and contract-holders within HMOs.

Learners will examine effective complaint handling procedures, the use of mediation to resolve disagreements, and the role of settlement agreements in achieving mutually acceptable outcomes. 

The lesson also highlights the importance of accurate record-keeping and proactive communication in preventing disputes from escalating, helping landlords avoid costly litigation while maintaining positive and professional landlord-tenant relationships.

Lesson 1 – Record Keeping and Compliance Systems

This lesson explores the importance of maintaining accurate records and effective compliance systems when managing an HMO in Wales.

Learners will examine how to use compliance calendars to monitor key legal deadlines, maintain safety records, organise occupation contract documentation, and keep detailed inspection records. 

The lesson also covers preparing for local authority inspections and audits, helping landlords demonstrate compliance, reduce legal risks, and manage their properties in a professional and organised manner.

Lesson 2 – Financial Management and Taxation

This lesson explores the financial responsibilities of operating an HMO in Wales and the importance of effective financial planning.

Learners will examine how to manage HMO rental income, identify allowable business expenses, understand key tax obligations, and develop realistic budgets for ongoing property management.

The lesson also covers monitoring profitability and cash flow, helping landlords make informed business decisions, maintain compliance with tax requirements, and maximise the long-term performance of their HMO investment.

Lesson 3 – Becoming a Professional HMO Landlord

This lesson focuses on developing the knowledge, skills, and systems required to operate HMOs professionally and successfully over the long term.

Learners will explore industry best practices, professional management standards, and the importance of continuing education in a constantly evolving regulatory environment.

The lesson also examines strategies for managing portfolio growth, maintaining high levels of compliance, and building sustainable systems that support profitability, risk management, and long-term success as a professional HMO landlord in Wales.