HMO waste guidance

Managing waste is very important for an HMO landlord. It keeps the property clean and healthy. Proper waste management stops rubbish from piling up. This helps prevent pests and dirty conditions. 

Following local waste disposal rules helps avoid fines and legal problems. A clean and well-kept property makes tenants happy and more likely to stay. 

 Responsible waste disposal and recycling helps the environment. It also builds good relationships with neighbours and the community.  

Managing waste well keeps the property in good condition. It makes the property a better place to live for everyone. 

What are the rules for waste management? 

By managing waste well, HMO landlords can make the property healthier and nicer for tenants. It also helps them follow legal and environmental rules. 

Here are the key points: 

• Landlords must provide enough bins for all tenants. The bins should be suitable for the types of waste. 
• Waste should be thrown away regularly and correctly. Separate recyclables and follow the collection days. 
• Tenants should be told how to throw away waste. They need to know what can be recycled and how to use the bins correctly. 
• Waste storage areas must be kept clean and tidy to prevent pests and bad smells. 
• All local waste management rules and schemes must be followed. 

Waste management regulations and schemes  

1. The licence holder must follow our rules for waste. They must make sure people living there arrange for waste collection. If the property is empty or people don't follow the rules, the licence holder must take care of it. 
2.  At the start of a tenancy, the licence holder must give written information to the tenants. This information should let them know: 
•  The day when refuse collections will happen. 
• The type of bins to use for household and recycling waste. 
• Details of our bulky waste collection service. 
• Details of our missed bin collection service. 
• To put bins at the property boundary by 6am on collection day. 
• That rubbish that doesn’t fit in the bins is collected within 48 hours or disposed of as soon as possible. This rubbish should be stored within the property boundary until collection or disposal. The bin must be kept locked at all times to prevent access by seagulls, vermin, and the public to unsafe waste. 
3. The licence holder must make sure there are enough bins for rubbish. The bins should be closable, in good condition, and the right size. 
4. The licence holder must make sure trade rubbish is not thrown in household bins. Trade rubbish should be disposed of quickly. It should be stored within the property boundary until collected. The licence holder must arrange for a licensed waste carrier to collect and dispose of it. 
5. For details of how to separate waste go to our recycling page.
6. We will give one set of waste and recycling bins for each council tax account. We will also offer regular and thorough waste collection for these bins. 

Every landlord should follow Torbay Council and SWISCO's Waste and Recycling Policy. If you have any queries, please contact SWISCO to discuss.

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