Landlord licensing in Birmingham City Council

Licensing at a glance

HMO licensing

Mandatory licensing applies to Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) occupied by five or more people forming two or more separate households, who share facilities such as a kitchen or bathroom.

Additional licensing

Yes, Birmingham City Council has designated wards subject to Additional Licensing. This applies to smaller HMOs that do not fall under mandatory licensing, typically properties with three or four tenants forming two or more households who share amenities.

Selective licensing

Yes, certain designated wards in Birmingham operate Selective Licensing. This requires all privately rented properties in these designated areas to be licensed, regardless of their occupancy type or size.

Typical fees

Licence fees vary for each scheme and property type. Fees typically start from approximately £1,200 for a five-year licence. Discounts may be available for accredited landlords or those applying online, with specific fees detailed on the council's website.

Towns covered

Birmingham, Edgbaston, Selly Oak, Erdington

What this means for you

Landlords and letting agents in Birmingham City Council must check if a property falls within a licensing designation before advertising it for rent. Operating a licensable property without a licence can lead to civil penalties of up to £30,000 per offence and a rent repayment order for up to 12 months of rent. It is essential to ensure all safety certificates, such as gas safety, electrical safety, and EPCs, are current. The Renters' Rights Act 2025, with main provisions commencing in 2026, requires all landlords to register with a national landlord register, provide tenants with a written tenancy agreement, and adhere to updated possession and rent increase rules. Keeping comprehensive compliance records, including a copy of any property licence, is crucial.

Official links

• Licensing pages
• Council website