Sandwell Council is proposing new rules that would require planning permission before converting a home into a small House in Multiple Occupation (HMO).
Currently, homes shared by three to six unrelated people can be converted without permission. Planning approval is only needed for HMOs with seven or more residents. The Council wants to introduce an Article 4 Direction across Sandwell, meaning all HMO applications would need to go through the planning process.
Why the change?
The Council says the new rules would help manage the number and distribution of HMOs across Sandwell neighbourhoods. Council Leader Councillor Ray Nock said: "We've listened to residents who have raised concerns about the number of HMOs in their communities. We know that having a high number of HMOs in one area can cause problems for local communities, including more pressure on parking and waste services and fewer homes for Sandwell families. Requiring planning permission would give the Council more control over new HMOs to help us protect our neighbourhoods."
What happens next
Sandwell Council Cabinet will be asked to approve the proposal at its meeting on Wednesday 14 October. If approved, the changes would come into immediate effect. The Council would then carry out a public consultation to hear views from residents and landlords. Cabinet would consider feedback before making a further decision on whether the rules should remain in place.