Birmingham Selective Landlord Licensing

What is the Birmingham Selective Licensing Scheme? 

It is a scheme that requires landlords in specific wards across the city to obtain a license before letting out privately-rented properties. The Council aims to improve the quality of properties in the Private Rental Sector (PRS) through this scheme, which has already been implemented in various other towns and cities in the UK. The scheme is supposed to ensure that tenants can be confident that the properties they are considering renting meet building health and safety standards.

In 2022, Birmingham City Council (BCC) received approval from the UK government to implement a selective licensing scheme. The Council has confirmed that the scheme commenced on June 5th, 2023.

Landlords in the 25 included wards can now start applying for their licenses.

How much does a license cost? 

Each license costs £700 and is valid for up to five years. Currently, if you own multiple properties or are a portfolio landlord, you need a separate license for each individual property you own, and there are no discounts available for purchasing multiple licenses. 

Which Birmingham wards are included in selective licensing? To determine if your property requires a license, you can refer to the official guidance and use the Birmingham City Council postcode checker, by entering the property postcode here.

What do I need to apply for a license? 

To apply for licensing in Birmingham, landlords (or their agents) must provide the following details: -

• Name and contact information of anyone associated with the property (owner, mortgage company, freeholder).

• Date of birth of the prospective license holder.

• A property floor plan with specific room measurements and placement within a broader complex, if applicable.

• Most recent electricity installation inspection and test certificate.

• Most recent gas safety certificate (if applicable).

• Card details for paying the license fee.

Please note that as of May 24th, 2023, a floor plan is not strictly necessary for Selective License applications, but specific room measurements and other property-specific information are still required.

On September 4th 2023, Birmingham City Council begins enforcement.

Are there any exemptions? 

If your property is a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) or registered with a local housing association, you are exempt from needing a landlord license. However, if you own an HMO, you may still need an updated license starting from June 5th, 2023. The definition of a licensable HMO will change to include smaller HMOs housing three or four tenants from two unrelated households that share facilities like kitchens and bathrooms. Similar to the Birmingham Selective Licensing Scheme, enforcement for these licensing schemes will begin on September 4th.

What happens if I don't purchase a landlord license? 

Failing to obtain a license by September 4th puts you at risk of being taken to court, facing significant fines, and/or receiving a rent repayment order, which allows your tenant to claim back any rent paid during periods of non-compliance.

Complete your application with Evora

If you are new to selective licensing and find it overwhelming, we are here to help. With our experienced property professionals who are familiar with licensing schemes, we can manage your licensing application or provide guidance should you prefer to do it yourself. 

Contact us as soon as possible to ensure that we can assist you in completing and submitting your selective licensing application before the deadline.

If you choose us to handle your application, we will gather all the necessary documentation specific to your property and tenancy, obtain relevant block information and documentation from the block management firm (if required), create a detailed floor plan that meets licensing requirements, and complete the application process on your behalf.