Most of the cost and risk in an HMO is decided at the design stage. In Belper we start by measuring every room and checking Amber Valley Borough Council's position on licensing and planning, then build the specification around it.
Because we also manage and maintain HMOs, we design with day-to-day running in mind: hard-wearing finishes, sensible storage and layouts that keep shared spaces usable.
HMO rules in Amber Valley Borough Council
| Rule | Amber Valley Borough Council |
|---|---|
| Mandatory HMO licence (5+ people) | In force everywhere in England |
| Additional HMO licensing | Not confirmed |
| Selective licensing | Not confirmed |
| Article 4 direction for small HMOs | Not confirmed |
Checked October 2026 against Amber Valley Borough Council's HMO licensing page. Schemes change, so we confirm the position for your address before any work starts.
We couldn't confirm Amber Valley Borough Council's Article 4 position from its own website, so we check it with the council for the address. Seven or more occupants always needs planning permission. We couldn't confirm whether Amber Valley Borough Council runs additional licensing, so we check with the council for the address.
HMO fire risk assessments in Belper: what we do
Shared houses in Belper need a fire risk assessment that reflects how the building is actually laid out. We assess the common parts and the escape route from every bedroom, then give you a written report with a prioritised action plan you can act on.
Councils and fire services covering Derbyshire commonly expect to see a current assessment, particularly at licence time. We review assessments for houses in Belper after building work or changes in occupancy, and can price any works the action plan identifies.
- Written fire risk assessment report for you to keep
- Prioritised action plan with a reason for each item
- Site visit covering common parts and every escape route
- Check of fire doors, alarms and emergency lighting
- Advice on the responsible person's ongoing duties