Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) consultation: Article 4 Direction

This consultation is closed. The consultation took place from 30 September to 11 November 2024.

Background to the proposal

The number of Houses in Multiple Occupation in Walsall is increasing. They are currently not regulated or managed effectively. HMOs can play an important role in meeting housing needs and providing affordable accommodation. However, they can make places less attractive or enjoyable to live in due to waste management, parking issues, and noise concerns.

Overview of the proposal

We proposed to apply for more control over Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) within the Borough through an Article 4 Direction. 

An Article 4 Direction is a planning tool used by local authorities to restrict certain permitted development rights - in this case smaller HMOs. The direction will remove the permitted development right to convert a house into a smaller HMO. Under the direction a planning permission is needed to do this. If the direction is approved, it will be enforced on 1 October 2025. Find out more about legislation for Article 4 Direction. You can also view a map of the area which would be included in the Article 4 direction.

Accessibility

Some of these files may not be suitable for users of assistive technology. If you use assistive technology and need a version of a document in a more accessible format, please contact us. We can provide you with an accessible version, or (in the case of maps and drawings) arrange to talk to you to explain the contents.

What implementing the proposal will mean

• From 1 October 2025 anyone wishing to develop an HMO will need to use the planning application process to obtain a planning permission from our Planning Team. Find out more about the planning application process and associated fees and charges.
• The direction would replace the permitted development right to create a HMO with the need to obtain planning permission.
• Removing the potential for HMO intensification can bring positive changes for the Borough. People living in HMOs could see high standards of living. People living near HMOs could enjoy benefits such as improvements to congestion, better parking or effective management of waste in the area.  
• We will be in a better position to manage the impact of HMOs on the local community and HMO residents.
• This supports Our Council Plan objectives for economy, people, children and communities:  
  • The delivery of good quality housing
  • Increase living standards
  • Continue economic growth
  • Provide a range of homes in the borough to promote an inclusive community. 

What happens next

A 12 month period for the ‘non-immediate’ option for introducing the direction began on 30 September 2024. A non-immediate option allows people intending to develop a HMO the time to do this before an application via the planning process is required.

During Summer 2025 a report with the results of the consultation will be prepared for consideration by cabinet. They will decide if the Direction is confirmed.

If the Direction is confirmed, it will come into effect on 1 October 2025. From that date smaller HMO’s will be subject to the planning application process.