HMO planning and Article 4 in Wednesbury

Need help with HMO planning permission in Wednesbury? We check the rules that apply at the address and prepare what Sandwell Council asks for.

From Wednesbury to the rest of the West Midlands, quotes are fixed for the agreed specification.

Designed around Sandwell Council's HMO standards

One team for build, compliance and lettings

Quotes itemised so you can compare

Free survey in Wednesbury

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

Landlords in Wednesbury deal with Sandwell Council for licensing, planning and housing standards. We keep those three in view together, so a layout that suits the licence also works for planning and building control.

We cover WS10 and the neighbouring postcodes, with the same standards in Wednesbury as anywhere else in the West Midlands.

HMO rules in Sandwell Council

Rule	Sandwell Council
Mandatory HMO licence (5+ people)	In force everywhere in England
Additional HMO licensing	In force Whole borough, 1 October 2024 to 30 September 2029
Selective licensing	None found
Article 4 direction for small HMOs	Proposed Cabinet approved an immediate borough-wide direction on 14 October 2026; not confirmed as in force when checked

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

Sandwell Council's cabinet approved an immediate borough-wide Article 4 direction on 14 October 2026. We could not confirm whether it has been made, so we check with the council before any change of use. Seven or more occupants always needs planning permission. Sandwell Council also runs additional licensing across its whole area (until 30 September 2029), so smaller HMOs with three or four people from two or more households need a licence too.

Our HMO planning permission service in Wednesbury

Planning for an HMO in Wednesbury 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 Wednesbury 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
Advice on Class L, C4 and sui generis routes
Planning statement covering concentration, amenity, parking and bins
Check of lawful use, Article 4 and local HMO policies
Submission and liaison with the planning officer

HMO planning and Article 4 near Wednesbury

Darlaston 1.1 miles
Bilston 2.1 miles
Tipton 2.4 miles
West Bromwich 2.6 miles
Walsall 2.9 miles
Willenhall 3.4 miles

Questions about HMO planning permission in Wednesbury

Do HMOs in Wednesbury 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 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. Sandwell 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 Wednesbury?

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 Wednesbury needs a licence, apply as soon as possible.