I agree with your statement and think more should be done to improve the standards of housing provided; generally HMO housing is not the best available and can lead to problems for residents. I understand affordability is the main driver here but also profit for the property owner. Where possible small self-contained units would be preferable to rooms with shared facilities.

A further comment to my previous one: I think communal a laundry room and garden/s would be acceptable but not kitchen or bathrooms as even the smallest unit can house a kitchenette and wash facilities. If the bathroom facilities need to be communal then several lockable shower room facilities should be provided with WC's.