Which Areas Are Covered?
Birmingham City Council's selective licensing covers specific wards. Only properties within the designated areas need a selective licence. Properties outside these wards are not covered (though mandatory HMO licensing still applies where relevant).
Birmingham introduced selective licensing covering inner-city wards with the highest PRS density and property condition issues. The scheme targets areas with above-average antisocial behaviour and poor housing conditions.
Licence Fees and Costs
| Fee Type | Amount | Per Year (5yr licence) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard licence fee | £700 | £140/year |
| Discounted fee | £560 | £112/year |
The licence fee is per property and covers the full 5-year licence period. This is a one-off cost, not an annual charge. Factor this into your investment calculations alongside other acquisition and compliance costs.
Licence Requirements and Conditions
To obtain and maintain a selective licence, your property must meet the following conditions:
- Valid Gas Safety Certificate
- Working smoke and CO alarms
- Valid EPC (minimum E)
- EICR within 5 years
- Written tenancy agreement
- Deposit protected in an approved scheme
- References for tenants
- Adequate security and fire precautions
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Renting a property that requires a selective licence without obtaining one is a criminal offence under Section 95 of the Housing Act 2004. The consequences can be severe:
- Civil penalty: Up to £30,000 per offence (alternative to prosecution)
- Criminal prosecution: Unlimited fine on conviction in magistrates' court
- Rent Repayment Order: Tenants can apply to the First-tier Tribunal to recover up to 12 months' rent
- Section 21 restriction: You cannot serve a valid Section 21 notice while the property is unlicensed
- Management order: The council can apply to take over management of the property
How to Apply
- Check if your property is in a covered area. Check the ward list above or use the council's online checker.
- Gather required documents: Gas Safety Certificate, EPC, EICR, proof of landlord identity, tenancy agreement.
- Apply online through Birmingham City Council's licensing portal.
- Pay the licence fee (£700 standard or £560 discounted).
- Await inspection and approval. The council may inspect the property as part of the application process.
Apply on the Birmingham City Council website: www.birmingham.gov.uk/selective-licensing
Exemptions
The following property types are typically exempt from selective licensing:
- Properties subject to mandatory HMO licensing
- Social housing
- Properties exempt under Schedule 14 Housing Act 2004
Exemptions should be confirmed directly with Birmingham City Council. Do not assume your property is exempt without verification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to the most common questions about this topic.
Related Pages
Never miss a compliance deadline with ZenRent
Track selective licences, gas safety certificates, EPCs, and EICRs across your entire portfolio. Automated alerts before every renewal. Start your 14-day free trial.
Disclaimer: Selective licensing schemes change frequently. Information on this page is researched as of April 2026 but may not reflect the latest council decisions. Always verify fees, covered areas, and requirements directly with Birmingham City Council before making investment or licensing decisions. This does not constitute legal advice.