Sandwell Property Licensing Schemes
Got questions about licensing schemes in Sandwell? We’re here to help. This free guide will provide you with the key details regarding what licensing requirements are necessary in Sandwell and how to apply for a licence.
Is manual compliance causing a headache for your agency? At Kamma, we specialise in automating licensing compliance for agents across the UK. If you need any assistance in getting your property portfolio compliant, find out how we can help letting agents here.
What are the licensing requirements for Sandwell?
Mandatory licensing in Sandwell
Mandatory licensing is required in Sandwell if your rented property is occupied by five or more people who form more than one household, including:
- Shared houses and flats occupied by students and young professionals.
- Properties converted into bedsits with some shared facilities.
- Properties converted into a mix of self-contained and non-self-contained accommodation.
Do I need an additional property licence in Sandwell?
An additional licensing scheme requires that all HMO properties in a designated area with 3 or more people from two different households require a licence. Sandwell council currently operates one additional licensing scheme which is set to be revoked and replaced by a new additional scheme in October 2024.
The current additional licensing scheme applies to the wards of West Bromwich and Greets Green and Lyng and runs from 01/07/2022 to 01/10/2024. On this date the scheme will be revoked and be replaced by a borough wide additional licensing scheme launching the same day.
The borough wide additional licensing scheme begins on 01/10/2024 and will run until 30/09/2029 and will require all HMO’s with three or more occupants from two different households in Sandwell to obtain a property licence.
Do I need a selective licence in Sandwell?
Selective licensing requires all HMO properties in a given area to obtain a licence, regardless of the number of occupants or households formed. Sandwell council does not currently operate any selective licensing schemes
How do I apply for a licence?
Sandwell Council has an online HMO licensing application process accessible here. For Kamma users, we offer a licence application service for Sandwell. Get in touch with us here to find out more.
How much does a license cost?
The additional scheme fee is £1,021.
These fees are subject to change and are accurate as of July 2025.
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What happens if I don't get a licence in Sandwell?
Ignoring the law could result in prosecution by Sandwell Council, fines, court costs, and more. Ensure you comply with all regulations to avoid these risks. Fines for non-compliant agents can be up to £30,000 per non-compliant property, as well as rent repayment orders of up to 12 months.
If you’re concerned about unlicensed properties in your portfolio, book a free consultation today with one of our consultants to get a property licensing check here. By keeping your properties in line with your region’s licensing requirements, you can maintain peace of mind that you won’t get burnt by non-compliance.
Frequently asked questions:
Is Sandwell council planning on introducing any new licensing schemes?
Yes, Sandwell council will be expanding their additional licensing scheme to be borough wide in October 2024. This scheme is set to replace the current additional licensing scheme running in Sandwell for West Bromwich. Find out more in the licensing section above.
Why is Sandwell Council expanding its additional licensing scheme?
Sandwell Council’s expansion of their additional licensing scheme aims to address the challenges posed by the increasing number of private rented accommodations.
The council has observed that some landlords and agents fail to provide adequate accommodation, resulting in issues such as antisocial behaviour, fly-tipping, poor property conditions, and illegal evictions. To tackle these problems, Sandwell Council has previously implemented additional licensing in parts of West Bromwich. However, the continued pressures necessitate a borough-wide approach.
What are the conditions to obtain a property licence in Sandwell?
Sandwell Council’s HMO licensing conditions are designed to ensure safety, suitability, and proper management of Houses in Multiple Occupation. Landlords must provide tenants with written occupancy terms, maintain proper management standards, and ensure properties have valid gas safety certificates, adequate fire detection and alarm systems, and regular electrical safety inspections. Properties must meet specific standards for amenities like kitchens and bathrooms, and all facilities must be kept in good repair.
Additionally, rooms used for sleeping must meet minimum floor area requirements to ensure adequate living space for occupants. Landlords are responsible for maintaining the exterior of the property, ensuring proper waste disposal, and preventing and addressing antisocial behavior by tenants or visitors. Failure to comply with these conditions can result in legal proceedings and revocation of the HMO licence, with these measures aiming to protect tenants and improve HMO property quality in Sandwell.
About Sandwell
Sandwell is a metropolitan borough in the county of West Midlands, west-central England. It comprises several urban industrial communities, including Wednesbury, West Bromwich, Cradley Heath, Smethwick, and Hamstead, historically part of Staffordshire, while Oldbury and Warley belong to Worcestershire. The borough has a rich industrial heritage dating back to the Middle Ages with metalworking and coal mining.
Sandwell’s industrial growth accelerated in the 18th century with the development of canals, fostering the establishment of ironworks such as the renowned Soho Manufactory in Smethwick. Today, Sandwell remains a significant hub for engineering and iron foundries, producing a variety of metal products, along with thriving chemicals and glassmaking industries. The borough is well-connected by two major motorways, covering an area of 33 square miles (86 square km), with a population of 308,063 as of the 2011 census.
