HMO projects in West Bromwich are shaped by the rules of Sandwell 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.
Our team is based in Great Barr, Birmingham, about 4 miles from West Bromwich. That keeps survey visits, site meetings and follow-up inspections easy to arrange.
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 West Bromwich
Planning for an HMO in West Bromwich 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 West Bromwich 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.
- Lawful development certificate applications with dated evidence
- Planning statement covering concentration, amenity, parking and bins
- Check of lawful use, Article 4 and local HMO policies
- Existing and proposed floor plans and site plans
- Advice on Class L, C4 and sui generis routes
HMO planning and Article 4 near West Bromwich
- Oldbury 1.6 miles
- Smethwick 1.8 miles
- Handsworth 2.4 miles
- Wednesbury 2.6 miles
- Tipton 3.2 miles
- Great Barr 3.2 miles