HMO licence applications in Oldbury

Midlands HMO supports HMO landlords in Oldbury with HMO licence application, from measured plans and certificates to the works that close any gaps.

Tell us about the property in Oldbury and we'll arrange a free survey at a time that suits you.

  • Free survey and fixed written quote
  • Covering Oldbury and nearby West Midlands towns
  • Quotes itemised so you can compare

Ask about a house in Oldbury

Tell us about the property. We reply within one working day.

Sandwell Council is the licensing and planning authority for Oldbury. We check its rules for the exact street before we draw a single partition.

We can keep a photographic record of each stage, which is useful evidence when the council inspects or a buyer's surveyor asks questions later.

HMO rules in Sandwell Council

RuleSandwell Council
Mandatory HMO licence (5+ people)In force everywhere in England
Additional HMO licensingIn force
Whole borough, 1 October 2024 to 30 September 2029
Selective licensingNone found
Article 4 direction for small HMOsProposed
Cabinet approved an immediate borough-wide direction on 14 October 2026; not confirmed as in force when checked

Checked October 2026 against Sandwell Council's HMO licensing page. Schemes change, so we confirm the position for your address before any work starts.

Sandwell Council's cabinet approved an immediate borough-wide Article 4 direction on 14 October 2026. We could not confirm whether it has been made, so we check with the council before any change of use. Seven or more occupants always needs planning permission. Sandwell Council also runs additional licensing across its whole area (until 30 September 2029), so smaller HMOs with three or four people from two or more households need a licence too.

HMO licence applications in Oldbury: what we do

Licensing rules for shared houses in Oldbury depend on the exact address. Mandatory licensing applies to every HMO with 5 or more occupiers, but additional or selective schemes can bring smaller houses into licensing too. We check which applies before preparing anything, so the application matches the scheme.

For landlords in Oldbury and across the West Midlands, we prepare the floor plan, collect the certificates and complete the council's form. We follow the application through to a decision, help with any draft conditions and keep a note of the renewal date.

  • Gas, electrical, alarm and lighting certificates collated
  • Help with draft conditions, renewals and variations
  • Measured floor plan in the council's usual format
  • Council application form completed and checked
  • Licence holder, manager and fit and proper details prepared

HMO licence applications near Oldbury

HMO licence applications in Oldbury: common questions

How long does an HMO licence last?

A licence can last up to five years. Sandwell Council may grant a shorter licence, for example where it has concerns about the property or the management.

What documents does Sandwell Council ask for with an HMO licence?

Councils usually ask for floor plans showing room sizes and fire safety features, gas and electrical safety certificates, and fire alarm and emergency lighting certificates. We check Sandwell Council's current list for your application.

What happens if I let an unlicensed HMO in Oldbury?

Since 1 May 2026 councils can issue civil penalties of up to £40,000, and rent repayment orders can cover up to two years' rent. If a house in Oldbury needs a licence, apply as soon as possible.

Do I need a licence for a three or four person HMO in Oldbury?

Yes. Sandwell Council runs additional licensing across its whole area, so a three or four person HMO in Oldbury with two or more households needs a licence. Mandatory licensing covers five or more people.

Ready to talk about Oldbury?

Book a free survey. We measure every room, check Sandwell Council's rules and give you a fixed written quote.

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