HMO planning and Article 4 in Solihull

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

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

Free survey and fixed written quote

Covering Solihull and nearby West Midlands towns

Designed around Solihull Council's HMO standards

Book a survey in Solihull

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

If the property is in Solihull, 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.

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 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.

Our HMO planning permission service in Solihull

Planning for an HMO in Solihull 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 Solihull 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.

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

HMO planning and Article 4 near Solihull

Shirley 1.6 miles
Acocks Green 2.7 miles
Hall Green 2.8 miles
Sheldon 2.9 miles
Knowle 2.9 miles
Yardley 3.8 miles

HMO planning and Article 4 in Solihull: common questions

Do HMOs in Solihull 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 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.

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

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.

How long does an HMO licence last?

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