Class C4 — Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs)
Class C4 covers small houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) — properties occupied by between three and six unrelated people who share facilities such as kitchens and bathrooms. Larger HMOs (7 or more occupants) are sui generis and fall outside the use classes.
Examples of Class C4 Uses
Shared houses (3–6 unrelated occupants) |
Student house shares |
Houses shared by young professionals |
Change of Use Rules
Change from C3 to C4 (3–6 occupants) is permitted development in most areas — but requires planning permission where Article 4 Directions are in place.
Change from C4 back to C3 (single household) is usually permitted development.
Change to large HMO (7+ occupants, sui generis) always requires planning permission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Need to make a change of use application?
Find out what you need to submit and how much it costs.
Other Use Classes
Commercial, Business and Service
Class F.1Learning and Non-Residential Institutions
Class F.2Local Community Use
Class C1Hotels
Class C2Residential Institutions
Class C3Dwellinghouses