HMO planning and Article 4 in Aldridge

Midlands HMO supports HMO landlords in Aldridge with HMO planning permission, from measured plans and certificates to the works that close any gaps.

Our base in Great Barr is about 3 miles from Aldridge, so surveys and site visits are straightforward to arrange.

  • Covering Aldridge and nearby West Midlands towns
  • Work by S&K and vetted subcontractors
  • Designed around Walsall Council's HMO standards

Ask about a house in Aldridge

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

An HMO in Aldridge has to work for three audiences: the council, the people who live there and the owner's figures. We design with all three in mind and price the result in writing.

We'll tell you plainly if a house in Aldridge isn't suited to the number of rooms you have in mind, and what it would take to make it work.

HMO rules in Walsall Council

RuleWalsall Council
Mandatory HMO licence (5+ people)In force everywhere in England
Additional HMO licensingIn part of the area
Nine wards: Palfrey, Paddock, Pleck and St Matthew's (to 31 August 2027), and Bentley and Darlaston North, Birchills Leamore, Blakenall, Darlaston South and Willenhall South (to 30 June 2028)
Selective licensingNone found
Article 4 direction for small HMOsIn force
Whole borough, since 1 October 2025

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

Walsall Council has an Article 4 direction across its whole area, so turning a family house in Aldridge into a small HMO needs planning permission. We check the planning history of the address as part of any licence work. Seven or more occupants always needs planning permission. Walsall Council's additional licensing covers nine wards, including Palfrey, Paddock, Pleck, St Matthew's, Blakenall, Birchills Leamore, Darlaston South and Willenhall South, which doesn't include Aldridge, so the mandatory licence for five or more people is the main one to plan for there.

Our HMO planning permission service in Aldridge

Planning for an HMO in Aldridge 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 Aldridge and the rest of the West Midlands, 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.

  • Advice on Class L, C4 and sui generis routes
  • Lawful development certificate applications with dated evidence
  • Submission and liaison with the planning officer
  • Check of lawful use, Article 4 and local HMO policies
  • Planning statement covering concentration, amenity, parking and bins

HMO planning and Article 4 near Aldridge

HMO planning and Article 4 in Aldridge: common questions

Do HMOs in Aldridge need a fire risk assessment?

Fire safety law requires a fire risk assessment of the common parts of most HMOs, and councils commonly ask to see one with a licence application. We arrange the assessment and the works it recommends.

How long does an HMO licence last?

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

What happens if I let an unlicensed HMO in Aldridge?

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 Aldridge needs a licence, apply as soon as possible.

How often are electrical checks needed in an HMO?

Private tenancies in England need an electrical installation condition report before the tenancy starts and at least every five years, and gas appliances need a safety check by a Gas Safe registered engineer every 12 months.

Ready to talk about Aldridge?

Call or send the form and we'll arrange a survey at a time that suits you.

Call free Guide price