HMO planning and Article 4 in Aston

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

We work in Aston for landlords, investors and owners converting their own property.

Designed around Birmingham City Council's HMO standards

Work by S&K and vetted subcontractors

Quotes itemised so you can compare

Ask about a house in Aston

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

An HMO in Aston 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 Aston isn't suited to the number of rooms you have in mind, and what it would take to make it work.

HMO rules in Birmingham City Council

Rule	Birmingham City Council
Mandatory HMO licence (5+ people)	In force everywhere in England
Additional HMO licensing	In force Whole city, 5 June 2023 to 4 June 2028
Selective licensing	In part of the area 25 of the city's 69 wards, 5 June 2023 to 4 June 2028
Article 4 direction for small HMOs	In force Whole city, in force since 8 June 2020

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

Birmingham City Council has an Article 4 direction across its whole area, so turning a family house in Aston 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. Birmingham City Council also runs additional licensing across its whole area (until 4 June 2028), so smaller HMOs with three or four people from two or more households need a licence too.

HMO planning and Article 4 in Aston: what we do

Planning for an HMO in Aston 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 Aston 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.

Check of lawful use, Article 4 and local HMO policies
Lawful development certificate applications with dated evidence
Existing and proposed floor plans and site plans
Advice on Class L, C4 and sui generis routes
Submission and liaison with the planning officer

HMO planning and Article 4 near Aston

Perry Barr about 1 mile
Saltley 1.4 miles
Birmingham 1.6 miles
Handsworth 2.3 miles
Kingstanding 2.8 miles
Edgbaston 3.3 miles

HMO planning and Article 4 in Aston: common questions

What happens if I let an unlicensed HMO in Aston?

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 Aston needs a licence, apply as soon as possible.

How long does an HMO licence last?

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

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

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

Do HMOs in Aston 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.