A petition has launched in Kingston to urge the council to update its rules on so-called Houses in Multiple Occupation.

It’s after residents in a part of New Malden say they are frustrated an HMO was allowed to be set up without them having to be notified.

An HMO is a property rented to at least three people from more than one household who share amenities like a bathroom, toilet, or kitchen.

Planning permission is only required if the property is being developed for use by more than 6 people.

The petition’s creators say they want Kingston to be stricter when it comes to allowing properties to be converted into HMOs.

Lambeth Council is one council that’s taken a tougher stance for example.

It’s implemented an Article 4 Direction will requires planning permission for changes of use from standard dwellings to new small HMOs.

The petition details can be found here.