Erdington MP Paulette Hamilton has hit out at rumours she owns a HMO property. Ms Hamilton looked to dispel “negative things” said about her when she clarified her situation on neighbourhood website Next Door.
The 62-year-old said that, while she supports “well-run HMOs” and supported living accommodations, she does not own either herself. Her parliamentary office told BirminghamLive she has “never owned” a HMO – which stands for ‘House in Multiple Occupation’.
It is defined as a property rented out by at least three people who are not from one household. Residents share facilities such as bathrooms and kitchens.
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Ms Hamilton rubbished the ongoing rumours in a statement posted to Next door yesterday, January 16. She said: “I do not normally come onto this platform, but have been contacted by a number of concerned residents who have told me that negative things have been said about me owning an HMO.
“Can I start this post by saying I am not opposed to well run HMOs or supported living accommodations. I have worked really hard over many years to ensure my residents are not having problems with poor landlords in this type of accommodation – and have been successful in stopping new ones opening up in the area.”
Ms Hamilton, looking to put an end to the gossip for good, added: “Not sure why this is circulating again, but I will write this for the final time: I do not own an HMO or supported living accommodation.”
The Erdington MP said she would delete her Next Door account after she issued the statement. She urged her constituents to contact her directly with any concerns.
A spokesperson for Ms Hamilton said: “Paulette firmly opposed to poorly managed rentals – be they HMOs, supported living accommodations, or any other type of rental property. She also remains a strong advocate against rogue landlords.”