Manchester: eighth arrest over vandalism of HMO properties and "NO HMO" graffiti

Police in the Manchester area have made an eighth arrest in an investigation into a series of vandalism attacks. The targets were HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation) and buildings mistaken for them. According to Polish Express, almost 50 damaged properties have been reported since early October 2026, and the real number may be higher.

What happened

The attacks took place in Salford and neighbouring parts of Greater Manchester: Tameside, Bolton, Rochdale, Wigan and Stockport. Windows were smashed and doors were torn off their hinges. Graffiti expressing opposition to HMOs was painted on the walls.

Salford police said they regard the attacks as racially or religiously motivated.

According to investigators, vulnerable people and minors are being used to damage the buildings. Chief Superintendent Marcus Noden said that one of the main lines of inquiry is the paying and exploitation of children to carry out such acts.

As part of the same investigation, a 37-year-old, Ashlea Simon, a former co-leader of Britain First who is now linked to the All For England group, was arrested at Manchester Airport on 25 October 2026. After questioning on suspicion of conspiracy to cause criminal damage, she was released on bail. An arrest does not mean guilt has been established.

What is an HMO?

An HMO is a house or flat let to at least three people who form more than one household. They usually have separate bedrooms but share a kitchen and bathroom. The term was formalised by the Housing Act 1985. HMOs are often used by students and young workers, but also by people leaving prison, people recovering from drug or alcohol addiction, and refugees.

A landlord must register a property as an HMO, although according to the source this applies only to larger buildings (more than 5 people) and not everywhere.

Why there is opposition to HMOs

The source points to two reasons for the dispute. The first is the conversion of family homes into rooms for rent, which brings landlords higher profits. Some residents believe this makes it harder for families to find homes. They also complain about more cars and rubbish in the area. The second reason is the use of HMOs to house asylum seekers. However, there are no official figures on how many such properties there are.

Most of the damaged homes in Salford are believed to have housed asylum seekers or refugees. However, reports indicate that some of the buildings did not serve that purpose, and some were not HMOs at all.

What this means for you

Many people rent rooms in shared houses, especially in their first years in the UK. Those living in Salford and the surrounding area may therefore know the issue from their own experience. Police encourage people to report vandalism and hate crimes.