HMO planning and Article 4 in Knowle

For landlords in Knowle, our HMO planning permission service turns the council's requirements into a clear list of documents, works and dates.

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

Free survey and fixed written quote

Covering Knowle and nearby West Midlands towns

One team for build, compliance and lettings

Free survey in Knowle

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

If the property is in Knowle, the council that matters is Solihull Council. We look up its current schemes for the address, note any conditions it usually attaches, and plan the work to suit.

We cover B93 and the neighbouring postcodes, with the same standards in Knowle as anywhere else in the West Midlands.

HMO rules in Solihull Council

Rule	Solihull 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 exploring a direction for smaller HMOs; none in force when checked

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

Solihull Council has said it is exploring an Article 4 direction for smaller HMOs. None was in force when we checked. Seven or more occupants always needs planning permission. We couldn't confirm whether Solihull Council runs additional licensing, so we check with the council for the address.

HMO planning and Article 4 for Knowle landlords

Planning for an HMO in Knowle 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 Knowle 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.

Submission and liaison with the planning officer
Advice on Class L, C4 and sui generis routes
Existing and proposed floor plans and site plans
Planning statement covering concentration, amenity, parking and bins
Check of lawful use, Article 4 and local HMO policies

HMO planning and Article 4 near Knowle

Solihull 2.9 miles
Shirley 4.1 miles
Sheldon 5.4 miles
Hall Green 5.5 miles
Acocks Green 5.7 miles
Tile Hill 6.3 miles

Questions about HMO planning permission in Knowle

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.

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

Only if Solihull Council runs an additional licensing scheme covering the address. Mandatory licensing starts at five or more people. We confirm the position with the council for the address.

What documents does Solihull 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 Solihull Council's current list for your application.

Can you fix the issues a council inspection found?

Yes. We price the works on the inspection report, carry them out and provide the evidence the council asks for.