Expert HMO Planning Consultants

Specialist Advice on HMO Planning Permission, Article 4 Directions & Certificate of Lawfulness

If you’re looking to convert a property into a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO), Cedar Planning provides professional, clear and reliable planning guidance tailored to your project. Our RTPI-chartered planning consultants have extensive experience securing HMO approvals, Certificates of Lawfulness and navigating Article 4 restrictions across England.

Whether you’re a landlord, developer or investor, we help you understand exactly what permissions you need — and give you the best chance of planning success.

Contact Us Today

For expert advice on HMO planning permission or Certificates of Lawfulness, contact Cedar Planning for a free initial assessment.

Do You Need Planning Permission for a HMO?

In some cases you can convert residential dwellings to 'small-scale' HMOs without the need for planning permission. Small-scale is defined as between 3 - 6 unrelated people. In these circumstances, a Certificate of Lawful Development can be obtained which will confirm that your property can operate as a small-scale HMO, without the need for planning permission.

However, a growing number of Councils have introduced Article 4 Directions to remove permitted development rights to covert houses in small HMOs. As such, in a number of places you will now need planning permission. If you are looking to operate a larger HMO, you will need planning permission to convert your property into a HMO.

Whichever route is needed, Cedar Planning can help you every step of the way through your HMO planning process.

Specialist Support for HMO Planning Applications

HMO planning requirements vary depending on your property, location and number of occupants. Cedar Planning will guide you through the process, ensuring your application is policy-led, robust and professionally presented.

We assist with:

• HMO planning applications

• HMO Certificates of Lawful Development (CLUED / CLOPUD)

• Article 4 Area restrictions and requirements

• Larger “sui generis” HMO applications (7+ occupants)

• Changes of use (C3 → C4 / C4 → Sui Generis)

• Pre-application advice and feasibility assessments

• HMO appeals where permission has been refused

We also provide supporting documents such as planning statements, which can be provided as stand-alone documents or as part of our planning application package.

You may also find these services helpful:

• Planning Consultancy Services

• Planning Applications

• Planning Appeals

• Our popular blog on Certificate of Lawfulness applications

Why Choose Cedar Planning?

We pride ourselves on a service that is:

• Honest and Transparent - If we believe you have a low chance of success, we will tell you before you commit.

• Professional and Evidence-Led - All work is carried out by RTPI-qualified planning consultants with experience in both public and private sectors.

• Client-Focused - We understand HMO investors often work to tight deadlines. We act quickly while maintaining accuracy and quality.

• Trusted by Landlords, Developers & Investors - We work with first-time HMO landlords through to professional portfolios and developers.

Get a Free No-Obligation Quote

To discuss your HMO project or request a free initial review, get in touch with our expert team by using the form below.

Or alternatively, send us an email at info@cedarplanning.co.uk with the relevant information.