Most of the cost and risk in an HMO is decided at the design stage. In Penkridge we start by measuring every room and checking South Staffordshire Council's position on licensing and planning, then build the specification around it.
Quotes list each item of work, so you can see where the money goes and compare like for like.
HMO rules in South Staffordshire Council
| Rule | South Staffordshire 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 | Not confirmed |
Checked October 2026 against South Staffordshire Council's HMO licensing page. Schemes change, so we confirm the position for your address before any work starts.
We couldn't confirm South Staffordshire Council's Article 4 position from its own website, so we check it with the council for the address. Seven or more occupants always needs planning permission. We couldn't confirm whether South Staffordshire Council runs additional licensing, so we check with the council for the address.
HMO planning and Article 4 for Penkridge landlords
Planning for an HMO in Penkridge starts with three questions: what the current lawful use is, whether an Article 4 direction covers the street, and what local policy says about the concentration of shared houses. We answer all three before you spend money on design.
For landlords and investors in Penkridge and the rest of Staffordshire, we prepare planning applications and lawful development certificates, with the plans and evidence councils commonly ask for. We also explain where licensing and building regulations need a separate approval.
- Planning statement covering concentration, amenity, parking and bins
- Submission and liaison with the planning officer
- Lawful development certificate applications with dated evidence
- Advice on Class L, C4 and sui generis routes
- Existing and proposed floor plans and site plans