Landlords in Newcastle-under-Lyme deal with Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council for licensing, planning and housing standards. We keep those three in view together, so a layout that suits the licence also works for planning and building control.
We cover ST5 and the neighbouring postcodes, with the same standards in Newcastle-under-Lyme as anywhere else in Staffordshire.
HMO rules in Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council
| Rule | Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council |
|---|---|
| Mandatory HMO licence (5+ people) | In force everywhere in England |
| Additional HMO licensing | Not confirmed |
| Selective licensing | Not confirmed |
| Article 4 direction for small HMOs | Proposed The council is investigating a borough-wide direction; none in force when checked |
Checked October 2026. Schemes change, so we confirm the position for your address before any work starts.
Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council is investigating a borough-wide Article 4 direction. None was in force when we checked. Seven or more occupants always needs planning permission. We couldn't confirm whether Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council runs additional licensing, so we check with the council for the address.
HMO fire risk assessments in Newcastle-under-Lyme: what we do
Shared houses in Newcastle-under-Lyme need a fire risk assessment that reflects how the building is actually laid out. We assess the common parts and the escape route from every bedroom, then give you a written report with a prioritised action plan you can act on.
Councils and fire services covering Staffordshire commonly expect to see a current assessment, particularly at licence time. We review assessments for houses in Newcastle-under-Lyme after building work or changes in occupancy, and can price any works the action plan identifies.
- Site visit covering common parts and every escape route
- Written fire risk assessment report for you to keep
- Prioritised action plan with a reason for each item
- Reviews after building work, layout or occupancy changes
- Check of fire doors, alarms and emergency lighting
Letting to students and sharers in Newcastle-under-Lyme
If the house in Newcastle-under-Lyme is let to students or sharers, up-to-date certificates, measured plans and a current fire risk assessment make any council inspection more straightforward, and they are usually asked for with a licence application.