If you own an HMO, you have a legal obligation to have a Periodic inspection Test carried out on your property every five years.

If your property is not an HMO, then you are not legally obliged to get your installation tested on a periodic basis. However, we recommend that you have a full PIR carried out every five years or on change of tenancy – whichever comes first.

Our guidance is based on legal obligations set out in The Landlords and Tenant Act (1985).

The following types of accommodation are all likely to be HMOs:

  • shared flats and houses
  • bedsits
  • hostels
  • halls of residence for students or nurses
  • boarding houses
  • hotels or bed and breakfasts with permanent residents
  • some supported accommodation, such as foyers or ‘move on’ accommodation for homeless people.