Walsall Property Licensing Schemes
Got questions about licensing schemes in Walsall? We’re here to help. This free guide will provide you with the key details regarding what licensing requirements are necessary in Walsall 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 Walsall?
Mandatory licensing in Walsall
Mandatory licensing is required in Walsall 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 Walsall?
Additional licensing requires that small HMO’s with three or more people from more than one household must obtain a licence. Additional schemes are implemented at the council’s discretion.
Walsall council currently operates two additional licensing schemes. The details are as follows:
Walsall additional scheme 1: Runs from 1st September 2022 until 31st August 2027. Covers the wards of Paddock, Palfrey, Pleck, and St Matthew’s
Walsall additional scheme 2: Runs from 1st July 2023 until 30th June 2026. Covers the wards of Bentley & Darlaston North, Birchills Leamore, Blakenall, Darlaston South, and Willenhall South
Do I need a selective licence in Walsall?
Selective licensing requires that all privately rented properties in a given area obtain a licence, regardless of the number of occupants or households. Walsall council does not currently operate a selective licensing scheme.
How do I apply for a licence?
Walsall Council has an online HMO licensing application process accessible here. For Kamma users, we offer a licence application service for Walsall. Get in touch with us here to find out more.
How much does a licence cost?
Mandatory licensing fees for Walsall start at £1,240 for non-accredited landlords and £990 for accredited landlords. Fees increase based on the number of occupants above five. For a full breakdown, see the council’s fee page.
The additional HMO licensing fee for Walsall is £1,170 for non-accredited landlords and £990 for accredited landlords.
These fees are subject to change and are accurate as of August 2024.
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What happens if I don't get a licence in Walsall?
Ignoring the law could result in prosecution by Walsall 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 Walsall council planning on introducing any new licensing schemes?
As of now, Walsall Council is not currently consulting on or planning to introduce any new licensing schemes.
Why has additional licensing in Walsall been introduced?
Walsall Council introduced additional licensing for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) to enhance the management and living conditions of these properties in specific borough wards. The scheme targets HMOs with three or four occupants, as larger ones are already under mandatory licensing. This initiative seeks to address issues like overcrowding, safety standards, and property maintenance. Following a consultation with residents, landlords, and stakeholders, there was strong support for the scheme, particularly in areas with significant housing issues, such as Willenhall South, Birchills Leamore, Blakenall, Bentley, and Darlaston. The goal is to protect vulnerable tenants and improve housing quality in these areas.
What are the conditions to obtain an additional licence in Walsall?
To obtain an additional licence for a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) in Walsall, landlords must meet several conditions. They must provide a valid Gas Safety Record for properties with gas and ensure all furniture complies with fire safety regulations. Electrical appliances must be safe, and smoke and carbon monoxide alarms must be installed and maintained. A written tenancy agreement is required, and bedroom sizes must meet minimum standards. Proper waste disposal arrangements must be in place. The landlord must ensure the property has adequate amenities and is not overcrowded. Regular property inspections must be conducted, and landlords must respond to and manage any anti-social behaviour. They must ensure that all people involved in property management are “fit and proper” and inform the council of any changes affecting the property’s licence status.
How long does a property licence in Walsall last?
HMO licences in Walsall are typically granted for up to 5 years, but the decision to issue the full term is at the discretion of the council. Licences may only be issued for 1 year under certain circumstances, such as if the application follows an investigation by Walsall Council, if required planning permission has not been obtained, if the application was prompted by a request from the council, or if the property should have been licensed earlier. The licence duration may also be reduced if there is a history of statutory enforcement against the owner or manager within the last four years, if there are unspent convictions beyond those assessed in the “fit and proper” review, if renewal conditions were not met during the previous licence term, if the renewal application is late, or if the property requires significant improvements. The council may also take legal action against landlords who fail to obtain the necessary licence
About Walsall
Walsall, located in the West Midlands of England, historically part of Staffordshire, is a metropolitan borough known for its industrial heritage. Positioned between Wolverhampton and Birmingham, Walsall has been a centre for metal processing since the 14th century, leveraging local coal, iron ore, and limestone. By the 17th century, it was notable for saddlery, nail, and iron manufacturing. Industrial development peaked in the 19th century with improved transport. Today, it remains an industrial hub, with Willenhall specialising in locks and keys and Darlaston in nuts and bolts. Despite past mining activities, Aldridge and Brownhills maintain a residential character, while the eastern borough features woods and farmland. Covering 41 square miles (106 square km), Walsall’s population grew from 253,499 in 2001 to 269,323 in 2011.
