HMO planning and Article 4 in Perry Barr

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

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

  • Free survey and fixed written quote
  • Covering Perry Barr and nearby West Midlands towns
  • Designed around Birmingham City Council's HMO standards

Ask about a house in Perry Barr

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

HMO projects in Perry Barr are shaped by the rules of Birmingham City Council. Before we price anything, we check whether the address falls within an additional licensing scheme or an Article 4 direction, because both change what the house needs and how long it takes.

Work is carried out by S&K and vetted subcontractors working under S&K's supervision, so you contract with one company for the whole project.

HMO rules in Birmingham City Council

RuleBirmingham City Council
Mandatory HMO licence (5+ people)In force everywhere in England
Additional HMO licensingIn force
Whole city, 5 June 2023 to 4 June 2028
Selective licensingIn part of the area
25 of the city's 69 wards, 5 June 2023 to 4 June 2028
Article 4 direction for small HMOsIn 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 Perry Barr 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 Perry Barr: what we do

Planning for an HMO in Perry Barr 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 Perry Barr 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.

  • Existing and proposed floor plans and site plans
  • Check of lawful use, Article 4 and local HMO policies
  • Submission and liaison with the planning officer
  • Lawful development certificate applications with dated evidence
  • Planning statement covering concentration, amenity, parking and bins

HMO planning and Article 4 near Perry Barr

Questions about HMO planning permission in Perry Barr

Do HMOs in Perry Barr 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.

What happens if I let an unlicensed HMO in Perry Barr?

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 Perry Barr 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.

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.

Need HMO planning permission help in Perry Barr?

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

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