First published on 14th March and updated on 20th March, Homes for Ukraine Scheme FAQ guidance provided by the Dept for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities appears to allay concerns within the private sector landlord community that if a person in the UK sponsors and accommodates people fleeing the Russian army's invasion of Ukraine, that person could be liable for operating an unlicensed HMO.

The guidance makes clear that rent should not be charged for any accommodation provided (a £350 monthly "Thank you" payment can be paid by Govt to the sponsoring accommodation provider); the accommodation can be a room in the sponsor's home or self contained accommodation in a currently unoccupied home; Local Authorities will be funded to carry out checks on the suitability and fitness for occupation of accommodation offered (so, effectively, the sponsor will also be able to confirm directly with Local Authority officers that no HMO regulations will apply).

The guidance can be accessed here.