Class L – small HMOs to dwellinghouses and vice versa

What is allowed

Development consisting of a change of use of a building—
from a use falling within Class C4 (houses in multiple occupation) of the Schedule to the Use Classes Order, to a use falling within Class C3 (dwellinghouses) of that Schedule;
from a use falling within Class C3 (dwellinghouses) of the Schedule to the Use Classes Order, to a use falling within Class C4 (houses in multiple occupation) of that Schedule.

Where can I use it

On any house or small HMO in England subject to Local Article 4 Controls.

What is not allowed

Development is not permitted by Class L if it would result in the use—
as two or more separate dwellinghouses falling within Class C3 (dwellinghouses) of any building previously used as a single dwellinghouse falling within Class C4 (houses in multiple occupation) of that Schedule; or
as two or more separate dwellinghouses falling within Class C4 (houses in multiple occupation) of any building previously used as a single dwellinghouse falling within Class C3 (dwellinghouses) of that Schedule.

How do I use the allowance

This is a normal permitted development allowance but also one of the most highly controlled allowances with some 40 council’s having Article 4 Controls on HMO’s. Check with your local council on whether there is an Article 4 direction in your area.

Our Notes

Our guide to HMO Development can be found here