Agency loses appeal over HMO without planning consent

Swan Sales and Lettings was ordered by Swansea Council to stop using a terraced property as a house in multiple occupation (HMO) without planning permission. The agency claimed it was operating as an Airbnb, but an inspection revealed it was being used for permanent student lets. The council had previously stated it would have rejected an application due to inadequate light for two bedrooms and concerns over road safety and parking. Despite the agency’s argument that converting the property was financially unviable as a single-household home, the council refused its subsequent attempt to apply for a seven-bedroom HMO, citing planning legislation.